The use of cosmology as an interdisciplinary introduction to a chemistry course is discussed. Students read a variety of nontext sources in order to piece together the events of the early universe that led to the creation of the elements. An introduction to gravity, mass, time, distance, temperature, and density are all possible with thematic cohesion. A framework is set for the study of the mole and radioactivity as well. A natural context is provided for the use of scientific notation, significant figures, and orders of magnitude, as well as for the introduction of special relativity and nuclear reactions. The search for the creation of the elements allows for the coverage of many basic concepts while employing a thematic, discussion-based format in a rigorous chemistry course.
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Citation
Glickstein, Neil. J. Chem. Educ.1999 76 353.
Keywords
Astrochemistry; Curriculum; Introductory / High School Chemistry; Nonmajor Courses; Hydrogen
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