Math skills are needed throughout a chemistry course.

Algebra
Algebra is used to solve equations by un-doing whatever is being done to an unknown variable. For example, if an equation has “x+2” then you would subtract “2” to solve for “x”.  Everything that is done to one side must be done to the other side of the equation as well.

Calculations with significant figures
You cannot become more precise after completing calculations than the original data was.  Therefore, it is important to write the answer with the correct number of significant figures.  When adding and subtracting with significant figures, you write the answer with the least number of decimal places that are in the problem.  When multiplying and dividing, write the answer with the least number of significant figures as is in the problems.

Scientific Notation
Scientific notation is a way of writing large or small numbers as a multiple of 10.  The decimal place is always placed behind the first non-zero number and the number of times the decimal point was moved to get there is used as the exponent of 10.  Positive exponents represent large numbers (>1) and negative exponents represent small numbers (<1).

There are when working with scientific notation numbers:

Logarithms
Logarithms are a way of counting in multiples of a base number.  If  then .  If no base is specified, it’s assumed to be 10. 

Calculator Tips
People often get incorrect answers simply from a mistake in the way they enter numbers into their calculator.  When dividing by more than one number, use the ¸ button each time.  When entering scientific notation, always use the EE (or EXP) button rather than entering (^10).  Be sure to use parenthesis around addition and subtraction when combining with multiplication and division, and also when taking a value (especially a negative value) to a power.

Flash Movie	Flash Game	Flash Card
Core Concept Tutorial	Problem Solving Drill	Review Cheat Sheet

Math skills are crucial throughout chemistry.  This tutorial reviews basic algebra needed in chemistry calculations.  Writing answers with the correct number of significant figures is taught, along with writing and reading numbers in scientific notation.  Performing calculations with exponents, including those in scientific notation, is illustrated.  Logarithms, both base 10 and natural logs, is taught.  The quadratic equation is demonstrated.  Finally, calculator survival tips are given to ensure the answer you type in what you intend.  All mathematical concepts are illustrated with chemistry applications—each one is actually used in chemistry calculations.

Specific Tutorial Features:

• Examples of the math techniques use chemistry applications

 Series Features:

• Concept map showing inter-connections of new concepts in this tutorial and those previously introduced.
• Definition slides introduce terms as they are needed.
• Visual representation of concepts
• Animated examples—worked out step by step
• A concise summary is given at the conclusion of the tutorial.

• Algebra
  • Solving for a variable in addition/subtraction and multiplication/division
• Calculating with significant figures
  • Addition/subtraction
  • Multiplication/division
• Scientific Notation
  • Writing in scientific notation
  • Reading scientific notation
  • Calculations with scientific notation
• Logarithms
  • Logarithms with base 10
• Calculator tips