General Chemistry

This module is part of a collection of nine green chemistry teaching modules developed in the early 2000s by a team of faculty (Donna Narsavage-Heald, Trudy Dickneider, David Marx, Timothy Foley, Joan Wasilewski) led by Michael Cann at the University of Scranton and has been migrated to the GCTLC. The subjects of the modules are based on winners of the Green Chemistry Challenge Awards. The modules were used to infuse green chemistry across the curriculum (courses: general chemistry, organic, advanced organic, biochemistry, environmental, industrial, polymer, inorganic, and toxicology). Infusion of green chemistry across the curriculum provides students with the understanding that green chemistry is not a field unto itself but impacts all areas of chemistry. Having been exposed to many green chemistry examples students are likely to think green in their ensuing careers. The resources are provided as is in their original form, for reference and archival purposes. Therefore some of the material may no longer be current and some links may no longer be active. An interesting project would be to update the material in this module.

This module would be suitable for use in a general chemistry course during discussions of phase diagrams, supercritical fluids, and molecular polarity. In addition, this module can be used in both an environmental chemistry and a polymer course. This discussion focuses on the environmental impact of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and halogenated organic compounds, commonly used in various industries and household products for cleaning purposes. The lesson discusses the negative effects of these solvents on air quality, the ozone layer, and human health. To mitigate these impacts, carbon dioxide is used as an alternative solvent due to its nonflammable, nontoxic, and environmentally friendly properties. Additionally, An explanation of how surfactants can enhance the solubility of substances in carbon dioxide, making it a viable option for cleaning applications, such as dry cleaning and metal component degreasing is included.

Major funding for this project came from The Camille and Henry Dreyfus Foundation Special Grant Program in the Chemical Sciences. The ACS/EPA Green Chemistry Educational Materials Development Project and the University of Scranton provided additional funding.

This module is also available in Spanish and Portuguese.