CHEM0001 Chemistry in Human History

Course Code

CHEM 0001

Course Title

Chemistry in Human History

(人文歷史中的化學)

Class Date

14, 15, 16, 17, 20 and 21 July 2026

(22 July 2026 is reserved for class make-up in case there is any cancellation of classes due to bad weather or other unexpected factors.)

(23 July 2026 is reserved for class assessment, if any.)

Class Time

2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Teacher

Dr. Sam C. K. HAU

Lecturer

Department of Chemistry

The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Medium of Instruction

English

Course Description

In this course, a series of stories of the fascinating connections between chemical structures and historical episodes or events will be explained and discussed. The dependence on similar chemical structures of those seemingly unrelated events will be uncovered and this course will help students to understand the extent to which the development of society has depended on the chemistry of certain compounds. Students are expected to be raise their interests and appreciation on the importance of and the contributions done by Chemistry.

Course Content

10 Chemical Structures are selected and discussed in this course, which are

1.     Ascorbic Acid;

2.     Glucose;

3.     Cellulose;

4.     Nitro Compounds;

5.     Silk and Nylon;

6.     Dyes;

7.     Wonder Drugs;

8.     Morphine, Nicotine and Caffeine;

9.     Salt;

10.  Chlorocarbon Compounds.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

a) Learn basic Chemistry concepts and knowledge related to Life Science.

b) Appreciate the role of Chemistry in various stages of life and daily life.

c) Describe the correlation between Chemistry and the history of human society development.

Course Assessment

The above course information is subject to change and approval.

Last updated on 20 February 2026