Learning Virtual Substance

Inquiry-driven student learning of thermodynamics is achieved with the implementation of the Virtual Substance molecular dynamics simulation program. Problem solving and critical thinking skills are developed by students through the completion of the modules described in this chapter. In addition, Virtual Substance is shown to be exceptionally numerically accurate as a tool for doing authentic science. 

The Virtual Substance program can reinvigorate the learning of a broad set of thermodynamic topics as seen in Table 1, the list given to students for... 

Whether they realize it or not, Leroy and Veronica have just embarked on an unforgettable process in which they will learn valuable life lessons through hands-on experience, lessons pertaining to one of the most basic and necessary substances in the human experience— water. They will learn about the unique properties of water, how water is used, the chemistry of water, and how water use regulations affect not only the environment but also virtually every aspect of every person s life, in the home, in the workplace, and in society in general. In short, Leroy and Veronica are about to experience contextual teaching and learning (CTL) at its best. 

We will now learn to calculate the pH for a solution containing a strong acid of known concentration. For example, if we know a solution contains 1.0 M HCl, how can we find fhe pH of the solution To answer this question we must know that when HCl dissolves in water, each molecule dissociates (ionizes) into H and CP ions. That is, we must know that HCl is a strong acid. Thus, although the label on the bottle says 1.0 M HCl, the solution contains virtually no HCl molecules. A 1.0 M HCl solution contains H and CP ions rather than HCl molecules. Typically, container labels indicate the substance(s) used to make up the solution but do not necessarily describe the solution components after dissolution. In this case,... 

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