Independent Paper:
In this comprehensive assignment, you are to write a short paper about an
element, compound, or mixture. I do not want to read more than one paper about any
particular substance; therefore, you must tell me in writing by February 7 the
substance you wish to write about. Upload a document to the “Independent Paper:
Paper Topic” Assignments box on D2L with your top three ideas for your paper in order of
preference by 11:59 pm (on 2/7). Elements, compounds, and mixtures will be accepted
on a first-come, first-serve basis; thus, if there is a particular substance you are eager to
write about, you should submit your topic before the deadline. If your particular substance
has already been approved for another student, you will be required to submit another
substance for consideration.
Your paper must include the following information at a minimum: Lewis
structure, chemical formula, molar mass, physical appearance of the substance (i.e. color,
odor, state, etc.), naturally occurring form of the substance (i.e. as a mineral, etc.),
reason for choosing the substance, common uses of the substance, and any interesting
facts regarding the substance. In addition, you must have a conclusion paragraph. 
The Lewis structure must be drawn on a page separate from the text and labeled as
a figure (this should be a plain white sheet of paper). You may then refer to this figure in
the text. The paper must have a cover page (including your name and title of the paper)
and be 2-3 pages in length typed (not including the cover page, Lewis structure page, or
references), in 12 pt Times New Roman font, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins (top,
bottom, and sides), be free of spelling and grammar errors, and be proofread. You must
CHE 1011-4A1, Spring 2024 Syllabus Page 9 of 16
include your references (encyclopedias, books, magazines, journals, or webpages). Note:
Wikipedia is not an acceptable reference, but it may be used to start your research. You
must have at least three different references. For each reference, be sure to include title,
author, date, and any other pertinent information (such as weblink for websites). Do not
plagiarize your paper – be sure to note any direct quotes or paraphrase the material with
appropriate citations.