General Chemistry I Major topics will include atomic theory and atomic structure; chemical bonding; stoichiometry; introduction to chemical thermodynamics. States of matter; solutions and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory work deals with testing of theories by various quantitative methods. Students with strong secondary school preparation are encouraged to consult the department chair for permission to elect CHEM 0104 or CHEM 0107 in place of this course. CHEM 0103 is also an appropriate course for a student with little or no prior preparation in chemistry who would like to learn about basic chemical principles while fulfilling the SCI or DED distribution requirement.

Inorganic and Physical Chemistry Laboratory In this course students will carry out experiments in the field of inorganic and physical chemistry and write journal-style reports based on their results.  In the first half of the semester students will conduct a multi-step synthesis and characterization of a Mo-Mo complex with a quadruple bond.  Students will learn inert atmosphere synthetic techniques and how to use a glove box.  The synthesized Mo-Mo complex will be characterized by UV-Vis, IR, 1H and 31P NMR spectroscopies, and cyclic voltammetry.  In the second half of the semester students will conduct two physical chemistry experiments.  First students will carry out a kinetic study of the  isomerization of the  Mo-Mo (alpha to beta or beta to alpha) complex by UV-Vis spectroscopy.  Finally, students will obtain the high-resolution IR spectra of acetylene and deuterated acetylene and analyze the rotation-vibration spectra using statistical and quantum mechanics to obtain structural data and interpret the peak intensities.  In addition to the laboratory activities, there will be lectures on metal quadruple bonds, principles of UV-Vis , IR, 1H and 31P NMR spectroscopies, cyclic voltammetry, and statistical mechanics.

Alex Bredar

Reviews and ratings for Alex Bredar at Middlebury College.Alex Bredar teaches General Chemistry I, Inorganic & Physical Chemistry and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Alex Bredar good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Loved Professor Bredar. Hands down one of the best STEM professors in Bi Hall, coming from someone who has taken courses in physics, math, earth and climate science, chem. She is a new professor, very passionate about the topic and so understanding. If you faced any challenges she is so willing to sit down and walk you through it. Highlight recommend take a course with her. 

I really love her as a teacher. I think the class itself is not too difficult and would highly recommend. There is not too much work at all and she really is accommodating and loves to work with students to help them further understand the content. 

I really enjoyed taking this intro chemistry course! This course definitely requires effort and consistency. As long as you do the readings and ask questions, you will do great. Alex is extremely helpful. If I were a Chem major, I would want her to be my advisor!