Chapter 1 – Introduction to Chemistry Section 4 – Problem Solving in Chemistry

Skills Used in Solving Problems The skills you use to solve a word problem in chemistry are not that different from those you use while shopping or cooking or planning a party. Effective problem solving always involves developing a plan and then implementing that plan.

Solving Numeric Problems Can be organized into three steps: 1. analyze 2. calculate 3. evaluate

Solving Numeric Problems Analyze –First, identify the known (where you are starting) and the unknown (where you are going) –Then, make a plan (draw a diagram, select an equation, set up the calculation)

Solving Numeric Problems Calculate –If you make an effective plan, doing the calculation should be the easiest part –Refer to the Math Handbook in Appendix C for additional help

Solving Numeric Problems Evaluate –Evaluate your answer Is it reasonable? Does it make sense? If not, check your calculations –Check that your answer has the correct unit and correct number of significant figures You may need to use scientific notation

Practice Problem You are visiting Indianapolis for the first time. Because it is a nice day, you decide to walk from the Indiana State Capital to the Murat Centre for an afternoon performance. The shortest route is 8 blocks. How many minutes will the trip take if you can walk one mile in 20 minutes? Assume that 10 city blocks equals one mile.

Practice Problem 1.Analyze Knowns: Unknown: 2.Calculate 3.Evaluate Does the answer make sense?

Fit an Ice Cube in a Bottle Take a moment to think to yourself about how can we transfer the ice to the inside of the bottle?

Solving Conceptual Problems Not every word problem in chemistry requires calculations; these problems are called conceptual problems The steps for solving a conceptual problem are: 1. analyze 2. solve

Assignment p. 30 #26 - #27 p. 32 #28 - #33