Intro to Chem and Math Background

[Marty McFly]

I've been trying to figure out my best course of action in regards to the pre-reqs needed to get in to the various nursing programs around here. I don't foresee a BSN as a possibility at this time the more I look at it, given the stringent qualifications to the programs out here in California.

I've decided to get my A.S. and will then go for an RN to BSN program down the road. It will most likely take some time to get in to the Associate's program, since all of the community colleges around here run lottery systems with no wait lists.

Given that, I'd like to start on the required courses but am wondering specifically what the math is like in Intro to Chemistry.

I was never strong in math. I took and passed a Statistics class in 2008 so I could feasibly start Intro to Chem right away this Spring.

I don't want to jump in and do poor -- I strive for A's. But given that I see A&P requires both this chemistry course AND college algebra, I don't want to get in over my head.

Because of the Statistics course I took, I wouldn't need to take any additional math courses if I didn't want to (the pre-req being algebra) because of my catalog rights at the community college I attend. I guess you could say I want to skirt the math if I can but am worried that I'll end up flunking out.

Anyone been in a similar situation?

[SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP]

Because you'll be working with formulas and dimensional analysis in Chem, an understanding of algebra is needed. When you have a formula, you need to know how to mathematically rearrange the equation so you can solve for the variable you want. Not sure what level of Chem is required in your program, but for the BSN, I had to take Organic Chem which meant I needed 2 semesters of Gen Chem before Orgo. The 2nd semester Gen Chem had formulas with logarithms in it, so you should at least take an intermediate college algebra course first.

The actual dimensional analysis isn't difficult once you understand how the concept works. However, this always seems to be the "make or break" portion of math in Chem that is difficult for students.

[Marty McFly]

Not sure what level of Chem is required in your program, but for the BSN, I had to take Organic Chem which meant I needed 2 semesters of Gen Chem before Orgo. The 2nd semester Gen Chem had formulas with logarithms in it, so you should at least take an intermediate college algebra course first.

I appreciate the response.

It's one semester of General Chem where I am here in California.

I found some "Algebra for Chemistry" workbooks. I wonder if that may help.

Thanks for your help!

[dt70]

If you did stats, you should have no problem. Stats was about understanding what formula is used and how to apply it. Chemistry math is similar. Both stats and chemistry allow calculators.

Check out youtube. There's tons of guys and gals making videos. The trick is to find one that makes sense to you.