This course introduces general chemistry concepts and is the first course in a systematic study of the standard nomenclature, reactions, preparations, and characteristic properties of the principle classes of carbon compounds. Emphasis will be placed on developing an understanding of stoichiometry; the electronic structure of atoms and molecules; conformation, configuration, and functional groups as related to a deeper appreciation of molecular structure; and the use of reaction mechanism to predict products and design syntheses. Examples from biochemistry will be included throughout the course. Laboratory experiments will introduce students to standard techniques (extraction, recrystallization, distillation, gas chromatography, stoichiometric calculation, and reporting of yields) as well as molecular modeling computer software. Organic compounds will be synthesized and characterized. Three hours lecture, three hours lab.