Chemistry

Course summary

Chemistry is the fascinating study of all matter, and possibly the oldest recognizable practical science with roots in the alchemy of the Middle Ages. In Chemistry you will analyze, evaluate, and explain results and observations. You will need to imagine chemicals being made of particles that you cannot see and understand what happens when those particles interact with energy and how they form new and different chemicals. Modern chemists play a vital role in our society designing new materials for our phones and clothes, discovering new drugs for medical treatments and even new smart materials. Due to the nature of the subject, chemistry is an excellent partner with Biology or Physics, or as a standalone A-Level. Year 12 Chemistry Module 2 – Foundations in chemistry: • Atoms, compounds, molecules, and equations • Amount of substance • Acid-base and redox reactions • Electrons, bonding, and structure Module 3 – Periodic table and energy: • The periodic table and periodicity • Group 2 and the halogens • Qualitative analysis • Enthalpy changes • Reaction rates and equilibrium (qualitative) Module 4 – Core organic chemistry: • Basic concepts • Hydrocarbons • Alcohols and haloalkanes • Organic synthesis • Analytical techniques (IR and MS) Year 13 Chemistry Module 5 – Physical chemistry and transition elements: • Reaction rates and equilibrium (quantitative) • pH and buffers • Enthalpy, entropy and free energy • Redox and electrode potentials • Transition elements Module 6 – Organic chemistry and analysis: • Aromatic compounds • Carbonyl compounds • Carboxylic acids and esters • Nitrogen compounds • Polymers • Organic synthesis • Chromatography and spectroscopy (NMR)