Chemistry

Course summary

Studying Chemistry at a higher level aims to encourage learners to develop: • essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of the subject and how they relate to each other • a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods • competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem-solving skills • an interest in and enthusiasm for the subject, including developing an interest in further study and careers • an understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society Course Details Year 12 (AS): Module 1 – Practical Skills in a written examination– Planning, Implementing, Analysis and Evaluation. 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 (MS and IR). Year 13 (to complete the A level): 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).