Chemistry

This stimulating and exciting course follows on from the AQA Sciences that many students study at GCSE. Our objective is to ensure that learning is enjoyable and enhances your enthusiasm for this fascinating subject. Topics studied include atomic structure, equations, bonding, the periodic table, energetics, equilibria, and some organic chemistry. We incorporate a good deal of practical work into the course; which fits in well with the new A Level changes, which replace ISA exams with classroom practicals. There is a big emphasis on problem solving, both mathematical and written word.

What skills will I develop?

• You will learn to use laboratory equipment skilfully and safely to carry out chemical investigations.
• You will develop your ability to record, present and analyse the data you collect according to international scientific standards.
• You will develop your ability to express complex scientific ideas clearly, both orally and in writing.
• Overall, you will develop your ability to make observations, design scientific investigations, and apply your chemical knowledge to interpret results and reach logical conclusions.

What topics will I study?

Component 1 – Examination: Paper 1 (2 hours – 35%)

Section A: Physical Chemistry (Atomic structure; Amount of substance; Bonding; Energetics; Chemical equilibria and Le Chatelier’s principle; Oxidation, reduction and redox equations; Thermodynamics; Equilibrium constant K_c for homogeneous systems; Electrode potentials and electrochemical cells; Acids and bases.)

Section B: Inorganic Chemistry (Periodicity; Group 2, Alkaline earth metals; Group 7(17), Halogens; Properties of Period 3 elements and their oxides; Transition metals; Reactions of ions in aqueous solution.)

Component 2 – Examination: Paper 2 (2 hours – 35%)

Section A: Physical Chemistry (Amount of substance; Bonding; Energetics; Kinetics; Chemical equilibria and Le Chatelier’s principle; Rate equations.)

Section B: Organic Chemistry (Introduction to organic chemistry; Alkanes; Halogenoalkanes; Alkenes; Alcohols; Organic analysis; Optical isomerism; Aldehydes and ketones; Carboxylic acids and derivatives; Aromatic chemistry; Amines; Polymers; Amino acids, proteins and DNA; Organic synthesis; Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy; Chromatography.)

Component 3 – Examination: Paper 3 (2 hours – 30%)

Section A: Practical techniques and data analysis

Section B: Complete Specification questioning

Where does the course lead?

Chemistry is central to all science, and underpins and complements the other sciences. Highly regarded by employers, Chemistry is essential in careers such as pharmacy, medicine, veterinary work, chemical engineering and food science.