I'm looking for a class in MIT OpenCourseWare where I can learn chemistry, But I don't know which ones to start on? I'm looking more to synthesize chemical reactions i.e. (Make Sodium Benzoate, smoke bombs, etc, etc.) Can someone help with which one I should start in? Or which one's I should take?

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eyust707 · Answer

I would first learn the basics of chemistry. Go go to the library and check out a few books on general chemistry. Become familiar with the elements, the acids, the bases. Teach yourself about ions and cations. Read about the different types of reactions, oxidations, etc. Learn about the basic structure of molecules and why they interact with each other in the way that they do. You can also find books on lab equipment and safety. Learn about the different types glassware and apparatus used in the lab. Once you have a basic understanding of chemistry, slightly more technical readings on pyrotechnics/smoke bombs/cool reactions can be understood quite easily. If you are a college student talk to professors on campus... seriously! As long as you are smart and responsible with what you do/make and have a decent set of morals/ethics, there are many professors that are more than willing to help/sponsor student lead"science experiments" ;)

eyust707 · Answer

chemistry eBooks can also be found online. There are sites that host them for free.

anonymous · Answer

Ok :) Thanks!

anonymous · Answer

why not take it in school. and you can take part in the programming courseware that mit is doing with interraction with the other people that sign up for it. to help eachother out. it is here on the main website openstudy.com

eyust707 · Answer

School gets expensive =/

anonymous · Answer

well were in high school.

anonymous · Answer

that's why i'm taking advantage of AP courses.

eyust707 · Answer

smart man!

anonymous · Answer

yep. I should have 16 college credits at the end of this year. (sophmore)

eyust707 · Answer

I wish I did that

anonymous · Answer

yep, by senior year im shooting for 30 - 40

eyust707 · Answer

haha nice

anonymous · Answer

tuition just keeps going up. i'm working hard so maybe i can get a full ride scholarship. just hoping.

anonymous · Answer

atleast for my in state university. ASU