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Here is a strategy for solving problems in
Accelerated Chemistry, try these steps and learn the process, you may
see your grade improve as a result!
- Read the problem: Many students miss items by simply overlooking information. Make a habit of reading through problems at least twice.
- List the variables given in the problem with their units: At
this point you may wish to expand any prefixes into scientific
notation. This can be a useful skill that will help memorization
of the prefixes, because you will be expected to know them!
- Convert any units into S.I. units: Apply the rules for significant figures to them immediately.
- Determine which variables are measurements and which are tabulated values: This
can be done by placing the number of significant figures in parentheses
by measurements (a la "Gateway" style) and leaving tabulated values
blank.
- Determine a relationship between the variables: Find
an equation (or two, remember you can perform substitutions) that link
the variables. These equations can be physical or chemical!
- Re-write the mathematical equation so that it solves for your unknown: This
step is best performed with the algebraic expressions, and so often is
the cause for the wrong answers! Remember that you cannot
re-write a chemical equation.
- Plug in the numbers and chug out the answer: Remember to let your units be your guide in all cases.
- Check your answer: Does
it make sense, or is it just calculator gobble-de-gook. you
should be able to predict an answer before you start the problem!
- Review the significant figures in the answer: Refer
back to the work you performed in step 4, and remember your order of
operations from step 6. Also remember that "delta" quantities
have to have a sig-fig treatment before you can use them!
- Box your answer! After all that, don't you want someone to see it!
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