Chemistry is the study of materials and substances and the transformations they undergo through interactions and the transfer of energy. Chemists can use an understanding of chemical structures and processes to adapt, control and manipulate systems to meet particular economic, environmental and social needs. This includes addressing the global challenges of climate change and security of water, food and energy supplies, and designing processes to maximise the efficient use of Earth’s finite resources.
The Chemistry ATAR course develops students’ understanding of the key chemical concepts and models of structure, bonding, and chemical change. Students learn how models of structure and bonding enable chemists to predict properties and reactions and to adapt these for particular purposes.
Prerequisites:
An understanding of the Year 11 content is assumed knowledge for students in Year 12. It is required that students studying Unit 3 and Unit 4 have achieved a C grade or higher Unit 1 and Unit 2 or have made arrangements with the Curriculum Team Leader for Science.
Syllabus:
The Year 12 syllabus is divided into two units, which are delivered as a pair. The notional time for the pair of units is 110 class contact hours.
Unit 3 – Equilibrium, acids and bases, and redox reactions
In this unit, students investigate the concept of reversibility of reactions and the dynamic nature of equilibrium in chemical systems; contemporary models of acid-base behaviour that explain their properties and uses; and the principles of oxidation and reduction reactions, including the generation of electricity from electrochemical cells.
Unit 4 – Organic chemistry and chemical synthesis
In this unit, students develop their understanding of the relationship between the structure, properties and chemical reactions of different organic functional groups. Students also investigate the process of chemical synthesis to form useful substances and products and the need to consider a range of factors in the design of these processes.
More Information:
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Career Pathways:
Click here to view a chart which shows a selection of jobs that have some relation to the subject of Chemistry!