Structure of Matter

Abstract

Introduction This learning course addresses the fundamental basics of the Structure of Matter (Chemistry of elements) designed for first-year students enrolled in the Common Core Department of state engineer at the Faculty of Science and Technology, and it is also relevant to students specializing in Chemical Process Engineering. The course material provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles governing the structure of matter. It covers the macroscopic and microscopic aspects of matter, including physical states, phase transitions, and essential quantitative concepts such as the mole, molar quantities, and the law of conservation of mass. The course explores the main constituents of matter through the development of atomic theory, highlighting atomic structure, isotopes, and methods for determining atomic masses. It introduces the principles of quantum mechanics to explain the electronic structure of atoms, including wave–particle duality and atomic models. In addition, the course examines the periodic classification of elements and the periodic trends of their physical and chemical properties. It also addresses chemical bonding, focusing on covalent bonds, molecular geometry, and the quantum description of bonding. Finally, the course presents the fundamentals of radioactivity and nuclear reactions, including types of radiation, radioactive decay kinetics, and their scientific and technological applications. This course aims to provide students with a solid foundation for understanding the structure and behavior of matter, preparing them for advanced studies in chemistry, physics, and related scientific fields. The content of this topic is divided into five main chapters according to the CANVAS:  Chapter 1: Fundamental Concepts  Chapter 2: Main Constituents of Matter  Chapter 3: Electronic Structure of the Atom  Chapter 4: Periodic Classification of Elements  Chapter 5: Chemical Bonding  Chapter 6: Radioactivity – Nuclear Reactions