Chemistry 101 - Part 2 Chemistry of the Elements

In Lesson 1 we take an in-depth look at the Periodic Table and the arrangement of groups and periods.  There is a clear divide between the metals and non-metals, and we consider the differences between the two classified groups.  We then cover the chemical properties of the groups, and finish off with an explosive look at the Group1 (Alkali) metals!

In this lecture we start by looking at Group 7 elements, or Halogens as they are more commonly known.  We cover displacement reactions involving the Halogens, and then move on to oxygen and how it is prepared in the laboratory.

Lesson 4 continues with the chemistry of oxygen, and the formation of oxides.  We then look in some depth at the chemistry of carbon dioxide, including its role as a greenhouse gas.  There is then a brief introduction to acids, and their reactions with metals, and we finish off with hydrogen and a description of the tests for water.

Lesson 4 begins with an explanation of what we mean by the term 'reactivity series' and how the order of metals in the series can be deduced through observations of their relative reactions with water and dilute acids.  The lesson then continues with a look at displacement reactions, and what we need to understand by the terms 'oxidation' and 'reduction'.  Finally we look at rusting as a practical example of oxidation.

In our final lecture we look at chemical tests for cations, anions and gases.  The first section explains what we mean by the terms 'cations' and 'anions', with examples of both and lists of the more common ones.  Tests for both types of ions are then described with illustrated examples.  The last section looks at the tests for the more common gases.