This textbook provides a specific definition of chemistry: the study of the materials of which the universe is made and the transformations that these materials undergo. Obviously, such a general definition has to be very broad and nonspecific. From your point of view at this time, how would you define chemistry? In your mind, what are “chemicals”? What do “chemists” do?

Although reviewing your lecture notes and reading your textbook are important, why does the study of chemistry depend so much on problem solving? Can you learn to solve problems yourself just by looking at the solved examples in your textbook or study guide? Discuss.

Describe how you would set up an experiment to test the relationship between completion of assigned homework and the final grade you receive in the course.

Describe the separation technique that could be used to separate each of the following mixtures. two colorless liquids.

Indium-110 decays to cadmium-110.

Describe three situations when you used the scientific method (outside of school) in the past month.

The text admits that there has also been a "dark side" to our use of chemicals and chemical processes, and uses the example of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) to explain this. List three additional improper or unfortunate uses of chemicals or chemical processes, and explain your reasoning.

The text discusses the enormous contribution of Dr. Ruth Rogan Benerito to the survival of the cotton fabric industry in the United States. In the discussion, it was mentioned that Dr. Benerito became a chemist when women were not expected to be interested in, or good at, scientific subjects. Has this attitude changed? Among your own friends, approximately how many of your female friends are studying a science? How many plan to pursue a career in science? Discuss.

Differentiate between a “theory” and a “scientific theory.”

This section presents several ways our day-to-day lives have been enriched by chemistry. List three materials or processes involving chemistry that you feel have contributed to such an enrichment and explain your choices.

List as many chemical reactions you can think of that are part of your everyday life. Explain.

The first paragraphs in this chapter ask you if you have ever wondered how and why various things in our everyday lives happen the way they do. For your next class meeting, make a list of five similar chemistry-related things for discussion with your instructor and the other students in your class.

Make five qualitative and five quantitative observations about the room in which you now sit.

The “Chemistry in Focus” segment Chemistry: An Important Component of Your Education discusses how studying chemistry can be beneficial not only in your chemistry courses but in your studies in general. What are some characteristics of a good student, and how does studying chemistry help achieve these characteristics?