Why choose A level Chemistry?
A level chemistry is arranged into the three traditional branches of chemistry – physical, inorganic and organic. In the first year of A level, you will study the following topics:
| Unit | Content |
| Atomic Structure | Fundamental particles, mass number, isotopes, ionisation energies |
| Amount of Substance | The mole, equations, concentrations, ideal gas equation |
| Bonding | Ionic, covalent, metallic bonding, shapes of molecules, intermolecular forces |
| Energetics | Enthalpy changes, calorimetry, Hess’s law |
| Kinetics | Rate of reaction, collision theory, rate equations |
| Equilibria | Dynamic equilibrium, Le Chatelier’s Principle, equilibrium constant (Kc) |
| Periodicity | Trends in physical and chemical properties across Period 3 |
| Introduction to Organic Chemistry | Basic concepts, nomenclature, isomerism, and homologous series (e.g. alcohols) |
| Thermodynamics | Enthalpy changes, Born-Haber cycles, entropy, Gibbs free energy |
| Electrochemical Cells | Electrode potentials, redox reactions, standard electrode potential |
| Properties of Period 3 Elements | Physical and chemical properties of Period 3 elements and their oxides |
| Transition Metals | Characteristic properties, complex ions, colour, catalysis |
| Optical Isomerism | Chirality in organic molecules, enantiomers, and their properties |
| Polymers | Addition and condensation polymers, biodegradability |
| Proteins | Structure of amino acids, peptide bonds, levels of protein structure |
| DNA | Structure of DNA and its role in protein synthesis |
| Organic Synthesis | Techniques for preparing and purifying organic compounds |
| NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) | Use of NMR in determining molecular structure, including chemical shifts and splitting patterns |
Course type: A level
Qualification: AQA
Entry requirements: GCSE grade 6 in sciences and grade 5 in maths
What doors will this open up for me?
A qualification in chemistry demonstrates that you have good analytical skills, the ability to learn high level information and an organised and logical approach to problem solving and practical situations. These skills are transferable to a number of careers which is why it is highly valued by universities and employers. Chemistry can lead to university courses in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, dentistry, forensic science, food science, pharmacy, medicine, nursing, veterinary science and many other specialised courses.
