This course is designed to illustrate and compare the physical, chemical, and nuclear properties of matter. Students will investigate essential chemistry concepts including: good laboratory practices, atomic theory, periodicity, chemical bonding, changes in matter, conservation of mass, energy transformations, nuclear applications, introduction to biochemistry and scientific communication. Students will be encouraged to develop a questioning attitude and to have a better understanding of the role chemistry plays in each person’s life. Laboratory experience will play a significant role in developing each student’s understanding of the key scientific principles presented and provide practice with laboratory equipment, technique, and safety.