CHEMISTRY
Chemistry is concerned with the science of matter, particularly its structure, properties and reactions. Chemistry is of central importance to the sciences as a whole. The chemistry course will enable students to acquire a number of transferable skills such as logical thinking, analytical problem-solving and a wide range of practical skills and techniques. The study of Chemistry has excellent synergies with the study of Further Mathematics, for example in the development of complex problem-solving skills.
Course content
3.1 Physical Chemistry
Atomic structure, amount of substance, bonding, energetics, kinetics, chemical equilibria, and Le Chatelier’s principle. Thermodynamics, rate equations, equilibrium constant for homogeneous systems, electrode potentials and electrochemical cells, acids, bases and buffers.
3.2 Inorganic Chemistry
Periodicity, Group 2 and Group 7. Properties of Period 3 elements and their oxides, transition metals, reactions of ions in aqueous solutions.
3.3 Organic Chemistry
Introduction to organic chemistry, alkanes, halogenoalkanes, alkenes, alcohols and organic analysis. Optical isomerism, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids and derivatives, aromatic chemistry, amines, polymers, amino acids, proteins and DNA, organic synthesis, NMR spectroscopy and chromatography.
Chemistry is either required or strongly recommended for many degree courses, such as engineering and is also highly prized for students wishing to undertake degree study in a breadth of subjects. For example, many students wishing to study accountancy may also choose to study chemistry as it demonstrates the ability to cope with challenging concepts.
