What is the Chemistry Test about?

The purpose of the Chemistry Test is to measure a student's knowledge in various topic areas of chemistry. All students who have scheduled high school chemistry are required to take this test. Its results, in conjunction with the results of the Mathematics Test, will determine the chemistry level at which you will begin if you schedule chemistry at Penn State. The test is most important for students who are interested in academic programs with a science/engineering orientation. It is recognized that all students may not have covered all of these topics in high school. However, you should do your best on this test so that the results accurately reflect your knowledge of chemistry. You may not use a calculator for this test.

Chemistry Test Topics:
1. Simple atomic structure (atomic number and atomic weight)
2. Nomenclature of common elements and compounds
3. The meaning of formulas (empirical and molecular)
4. Equation balancing (non-redox type)
5. Simple stoichiometry (percentage composition, wt.-wt. calculations in a reaction)
6. The mole concept (gram-mole conversions)
7. Gas laws (Boyle's and Charles's)

A student who earns high scores on the Chemistry and Mathematics Tests will be encouraged to take, at a later date, a Penn State proficiency test in chemistry. (This information has been approved by the Department of Chemistry.)