Chemistry

About the Major

Courses within the Chemistry curriculum focus on the connections between theory and application of chemical principles. Independent laboratory work, under collaborative supervision of faculty, is required of all students. Written and oral communication of scientific knowledge is emphasized.

In keeping with the tradition of a liberal arts education, the program has been designed with sufficient flexibility to allow students to explore areas within the social sciences and humanities. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in summer internship programs. Because of the extensive hands-on experience afforded at Wilson, students possess a decisive advantage in gaining employment or in continuing their education. The Chemistry faculty aim to prepare students for graduate work in specialized areas of chemistry and biochemistry; the application of chemistry in medicine, biology, and environmental science; positions in industry or government services; or secondary education certification.

It is recommended that Chemistry majors take German to fulfill the foreign language requirement. Work beyond the first year is not required; however, a student with an interest in graduate school should consult with an advisor about foreign language skills. Biochemistry is recommended for students interested in medicine or veterinary medicine.

Secondary Education Certification in Chemistry is available—See Education.

Every student who majors in Chemistry at Wilson College will begin her own research project during the spring semester of her junior year.  This program is unusual in that each student can conduct research on the topic of her choice and thus is not limited by the research interests of the faculty. This research project is part of a three semester course sequence that is completed during the spring semester of her senior year.  The first semester focuses on the background information and writing the proposal for the research she intends to perform.  The second semester she will conduct the research and give presentations on the project.  The third semester is when the final paper is written to summarize her work.   At the end of the third semester, each student presents her research at the Physical and Life Sciences Research Symposium. 

Many students also take the opportunity to present their research findings at the Pennsylvania Academy of Science annual meeting, held every spring.  Click the Recent Senior Research Projects tab to see the abstracts of recent chemistry research projects.

Course Requirements

CHM 101: General Chemistry I

The first semester of a two-semester sequence intended for students majoring in the sciences. The course focuses on the study of atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry, energy, bonding and coordination chemistry. The laboratory work reinforces lecture topics. Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in MAT 103 or placement above MAT 103. High school chemistry or an introductory chemistry course is strongly recommended. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. NSL

CHM 102: General Chemistry II

The continuation of General Chemistry I with emphasis on solutions, kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, thermodynamics and electrochemistry. The laboratory work reinforces lecture topics and includes qualitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM 101 and MAT 103. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. NSL

CHM 201: Organic Chemistry I

The first course of a two-semester sequence that introduces structure, bonding and reactivity of organic (carbon-based) compounds. The lecture focuses on properties and reactivity of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, aldehydes and ketones, with an emphasis on reaction mechanisms and stereochemistry. The laboratory introduces basic purification and synthetic techniques, and analytical methods including polarimetry, IR and NMR spectroscopy. Prerequisite: 102. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. NSL

CHM 202: Organic Chemistry II

A continuation of CHM 201 with an added emphasis on molecules with biological importance. The lectures include a discussion of carboxylic acids and their derivatives, enolates, aromatics, amines, lipids, carbohydrates and amino acids. The laboratory work includes more advanced synthetic methods and an independent research project. Prerequisite: 201. Three hours lecture, three hours laboratory. NSL

CHM 205: Analytical Chemistry

A study of the fundamental principles of statistical analysis of data, theory and quantitative methods of spectrophotometry and analytic separations. The laboratory work integrates classical and instrumental techniques in the analysis of real-life samples. Prerequisite: 102. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. NSL

CHM 301: Physical Chemistry I

Introduction to thermodynamics and equilibrium. Topics include the laws of thermodynamics, ideal equilibrium, ideal and nonideal solutions, electrochemistry and surface chemistry. The laboratory work reinforces lecture topics and emphasizes physical-analytical methods. Three hours lecture and three hours lab. Prerequisites: 205 or concurrent enrollment, MAT 140 and PHY 102. NSL

CHM 302: Physical Chemistry II

Introduction to kinetics and quantum chemistry. Topics include transport processes, reaction rates, molecular spectroscopy and quantum mechanics. Prerequisite: 301. NS

CHM 303: Inorganic Chemistry

Chemistry of inorganic and organometallic complexes with a focus on structure, bonding, molecular orbital theory and spectroscopic properties. Laboratory will focus on synthesis of inorganic and organometallic complexes emphasizing inert atmosphere techniques and spectroscopy. Prerequisite: 202. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. NSL

or

CHM 310: Fundamentals of Biochemistry

Introduction to the major classes of biomolecules: proteins, lipids, nucleic acids and carbohydrates. Study of select biochemical processes with a focus on enzyme-controlled reactions. Topics include: amino acid chemistry, protein structure and function, enzymatic mechanisms, kinetics and regulation, membrane structure and function, biochemical basis of transcription and translation, bioenergetics, glycolysis, citric acid cycle, electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation. Prerequisite: 202. Three hours lecture. NS

or

CHM 318: Biochemistry I

This course will introduce students to the major classes of biomolecules: proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids. The course emphasizes the chemistry that dictates the structure and functions of biological molecules. Biochemistry I will also involve detailed study of proteinacous enzymes, models of enzyme activity and enzymatic regulation. Nucleic acid enzymes and current topics in nucleic acid biochemistry will be discussed. The combination of the major classes of biological molecules to form biological membranes and the transport through such complex structures will be discussed. Prerequisite: 202. Three hours lecture.

MAT 130: Calculus and Analytic Geometry I

Review of functions and introduction to the concepts of limits, differentiation and integration. Use of the derivative and analytic geometry for sophisticated graphing of functions and relations. Application of the derivative and definite integral to the study of problem-solving techniques in the physical sciences. Prerequisite: 110 or Mathematics Placement Exam results. NS

MAT 140: Calculus and Analytic Geometry II

Continuation of the study of the derivative and definite integral for problem-solving, involving more challenging functions. Topics include techniques of integration, improper integrals, numerical approximation techniques, conics, sequences and series, and polar coordinates. Prerequisite: 130. NS

PHY 101: Physics I

The first course of a two-semester, algebra- based sequence designed primarily for students pursuing a premedical or science program. The topics include mechanics, fluids, sound and thermodynamics. An emphasis is placed on problem-solving and medical applications of physics. The laboratory experiments serve to supplement and reinforce the lecture topics. Prerequisite: MAT 110 or equivalent. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. NSL.

PHY 102: Physics II

A continuation of PHY 101 covering the general topics of electricity magnetism, optics and atomic/nuclear physics. Prerequisite: 101. Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory. NSL

CHM 398: Design and Methods of Scientific Research

Students learn to explore primary scientific literature, develop a research project, and, depending upon student and faculty interest, learn advanced laboratory skills. The course will result in a research proposal. .5 credits. Prerequisite: at least four courses above the 200 level in chemistry.

CHM 400, 402: Senior Research Seminar I, II

The second course in the three-semester research sequence for biology and chemistry majors, with a focus on research and oral presentations. Seminar based on original research and/or recent scientific literature following the proposal developed in 39 8. Seminar presentations and a draft research paper are required. Specific research topics selected based on interests and background of faculty and students. 1 course credit. Prerequisite: 398.

The third course in the three-semester sequence for biology and chemistry majors, with the focus on the analysis of research results, the research paper and a poster presentation. .5 course credits. Completion of this course will fulfill one writing-intensive credit. Prerequisite: 400. WI.

or

EDU 326: Student Teaching - Secondary

A 14-week clinical experience in local schools for majors in the College for Women and the Adult Learning Programs who pursue instructional certification for elementary education or a specific discipline at the secondary level. Student observes school calendar, not college calendar. Supplemented with the appropriate practicum seminar. Prerequisites: all professional coursework; adviser approval. (Three course credits).

Student Learning Goals

Students completing courses in general chemistry and organic chemistry will

• Achieve an understanding of theories and applications of general and organic chemistry.
• Demonstrate proficiency in the laboratory.
• Apply quantitative reasoning skills and critical thinking to problem solving, as appropriate to these courses.
• Effectively communicate scientific information in the written form.

Instrumentation:

Agilent 1120 Compact High Performance Liquid Chromatograph (HPLC) with UV/VIS detector and manual injector

Anasazi Instruments 90 mHz Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometer (NMR) with proton and C13 probes

Varian Gas Chromatograph/Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS)

Shimadzu Fluorescence Spectrophotometer

Thermo Nicolet Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectrophotometer (FT-IR)

Perkin Elmer Lambda 25 Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-VIS) dual beam Spectrophotometer

Shimadzu UV-1800 Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-VIS) dual beam Spectrophotometer

Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM)

Barnsted 18 MOhm Water purification system (3)

Microwave-Assisted Pyrolysis Apparatus

Dual Light Workstation

Analytical Balances

pH meters

Rotavap

Melting Point Apparatus

Recent Senior Research Projects

Mariam Khalifeh "The Effects of Water Soluble Fiber Combined with Poly- and Monounsaturated Fatty Acids on Plasma Lipoprotein Levels in Hypercholesterolemic Rats." 2011 Pennsylvania Academy of Science Oral Presentation.

Abstract: Hypercholesterolemia is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated concentrations of circulating plasma low density lipoproteins (LDL).  Hypercholesterolemia is directly associated with an increased risk for coronary artery disease.  Pharmacological treatments for hypercholersterolemia result in adverse side effects and have been associated with potential carcinogenicity.  Recent research has suggested that natural approaches and nonpharmacologic interventions, consisting  largely of dietart modifications, are advocated as a firstline treatment for hypercholesterolemia.  Olive oil, fish oil, and rice bran oil are rich in monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFA), which affectplasma cholesterol metabolism via different mechanisms.  Furthermore, oat bran, an important source of water-soluble fiber, is recognized as a potential hypercholesterolemic dietary component.  This study investigated the efficacy of three diets, combining each of the unsaturated oils with oat bran, in lowering plasma cholesterol levelsin hypercholesterolemic rats.  In order the determine the effectiveness of each diet, plasma samples were collected from the rats, and quantitative ananalysis of plasma lipoproteins was performed using high performance gel filtration chromatography (HPGC).  The results of this study will provide insights about how PUFAs, MUFAs, and water-soluble fiber may be used in combination diets to reduce plasma cholesterol concentrations in hypercholesterolemic patients.

Megan Dennis "Comparing Vitellogenin Induction by 17β-estradiol in Male Danio rerio Through a Tritrophic Bioaccumulation Model and a Bioconcentration Model." 2011 Pennsylvania Academy of Science Oral Presentation.

Abstract:  The steroid hormone 17β-estradiol (E2) is excreted into the water by humans and is not filtered by sewage treatment plants. Its presence in the aquatic ecosystem is causing a disruption of the functioning ability of many aquatic organisms. Being lipophilic allows 17β-estradiol to be stored in primary producers, giving E2 the ability to possibly bioaccumulate up the food chain. The chemical E2 can also bioconcentrate in aquatic species, specifically fish, which implies it can be accumulated through non-dietary routes. A tritrophic model, using diatoms (Navicula radiosa), daphnia (Daphnia pulex), and zebrafish (Danio rerio) will serve to evaluate the bioaccumulation and potential trophic transfer by exposing diatoms to E2. A second bioconcentration model will determine the ability of E2 to concentrate in D. rerio via direct exposure of water treated with E2. In both of these experiments, quantification of vitellogenin (Vtg) production by D. rerio will be compared between treatments using an ELISA. It is expected that elevated Vtg levels will be found in the D. rerio treated with E2, in both models. The results obtained will be analyzed by a multi-variable ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc.

Capulet Williams “Detectable Limits of Blood Using Luminal Following Exposure to Extreme Heat of Fire.” 2010 Pennsylvania Academy of Science Poster Presentation.

Abstract: Luminal, which produces chemiluminescence upon oxidation, is frequently used to detect blood at crime scenes as only one per per milliom (ppm) of blood is necessary for a detectable signal. Forensic scientists and law enforcement officers often encounter situations where attempts have been made to cover up or destroy evidence by the use of arson. In this study, the detection limit of blood following exposure to the extreme heat of fire was investigated. Fluorimetry was utilized to determine whether the intensity of chemiluminescence was linearly related to concentration of blood and to determine whether the intensity of chemiluminescence changed when blood was exposed to heat. Trends indicate that blood exposed to heat produces a higher intensity of chemiluminescence verses blood that has not been exposed to heat. Blood at various dilutions (0.01 ppm – 100 ppm) was then qualitatively analyzed before and after exposure to the extreme heat of fire. A controlled burn of wood pallets treated with the same dilutions of blood was done in cooperation with the Franklin County Public Safety and FireTraining Center. The pallets will be treated with luminal and examined qualitatively and quantitatively using a digital fluorescence imaging system.

 Ashley Mudd. "An Inquiry into the Existence of a Relationship between β-carotene and Tetrachloroisophthalonitrile Fungicide Residue levels in Raphanus sativus." 2009 Pennsylvania Academy of Science Oral Presentation.

Abstract: The lipophilic compound β-carotene serves as a precursor to vitamin A (retinol) in animals, which is essential in the proper functioning of light-sensitive nerve cells in the retina. Prior studies have focused primarily on the increase of phytochemical bioavailability within the human system, but have not examined the potentiality of a positive correlation between the non-polar phytochemical, β-carotene and bioaccumulation of non-polar biocides. Over 11 million pounds of the non-polar fungicide tetrachloroisophthalonitrile are applied annually to vegetables and fruits in the U.S. as a deterrent for fungal diseases. Tetrachloroisophthalonitrile was applied weekly to four varieties of Raphanus sativus (Rainbow, Zlata, Mooli, Mantanghong). Variables affecting plant stress and health were monitored, including soil pH, moisture, temperature and light-exposure. Foliage and root samples were analyzed for β-carotene content using HPLC/UV-vis and tetrachloroisophthalonitrile content using an enzyme immuno assay.

Scholarships Available to Chemistry Majors: (contact Financial Aid or Admissions for more information)

Peggy Hurst ’46 Memorial Scholarship (preference for student in sophomore or junior year majoring in chemistry, physics, biology or mathematics)

Scholarship to Enhance Biology and Chemistry Learning and Research (SEBCLAR)

Viola Ohler ’35 and William H. Phillips Scholarship Endowment (preference given to full-time residential students majoring in mathematics or chemistry)

Awards and Honors available to Chemistry Majors

CRC Press General Chemistry Achievement Award - award given to student with highest grade in General Chemistry

Wilson College Organic Chemistry Achievement Award - award given to student with highest grade in Organic Chemistry

Americal Chemical Society Outstanding Chemistry Major Award - award presented at Southeastern PA Section of the American Chemical Society annual meeting to recognize outstanding achievement in Chemistry at Wilson College

Honors in the Chemistry major - students with a record of high academic achievement would be invited by faculty to complete a more rigorous, in depth research project as part of the senior capstone research project and if the final senior thesis is deemed acceptable would be awarded Honors in the major upon graduation

Margaret Criswell Disert ’20 Honors Scholarship - chemistry majors who are invited by faculty to complete Honors in the major will be eligible to apply for the campus-wide competition for this scholarship which provides funding for student research.  Award is given to Wilson college student from any discipline with proven record of high academic achievement, an outstanding research proposal, and strong recommendations from faculty as determined by panel of judges.