Chemistry 1

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

Estimated total time commitment of 170 hours

Chemistry

One of:

• VCE Units 3/4 Chemistry, or equivalent

Mathematics

One of:

• VCE Units 3/4 Mathematical Methods
• VCE Units 3/4 Further Mathematics
• Admission into the Bachelor of Science course
• Admission into the Bachelor of Commerce course

None

None

None

The subject provides an introduction to stoichiometry; gases; energy and thermochemistry; chemical equilibrium; acid-base chemistry; properties of solutions, aspects of main group chemistry: structure and bonding in elements and compounds of groups 14-18; solutions and pH equilibria; physical properties of solution. intermolecular forces and extended solid state structures; structure and bonding of alkanes, alkenes and alkynes; benzene and its derivatives; functional groups; and spectroscopy and determination of structure.

The aim of the subject is to provide students with an understanding of the place of chemistry in biology, technology and the physical environment; the nature of gases; basic energy concepts; the nature of chemical equilibria; the structure and bonding of inorganic molecules; the nature of the solid state; the structures of hydrocarbon and main group molecules; the important functional groups; the nature of techniques of measurement; and the evolution of current theories.

In the practical component, students should develop basic laboratory skills (observation, analytical techniques, report writing); oral communication skills; independent learning skills; and an appreciation of the health and safety issues associated with the safe handling and disposal of laboratory chemicals.

• Three equally weighted 30 minute on-line tests conducted during the semester (6%)
• Ongoing assessment of practical work throughout the semester (20%)
• A three hour written examination in the examination period (74%)

Satisfactory completion of practical work is necessary to pass the subject. Independent learning tasks need to be completed in order to pass the subject.

• A. Burrows, J. Holman, A. Parsons, G. Pilling and G. Price, Chemistry3 2nd Ed, Oxford University Press, 2013.

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Environments
• Bachelor of Music

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

This subject encompasses particular generic skills so that on completion of this subject students should have developed skills relating to:

• the organization of work schedules that permit appropriate preparation time for tutorials, practical classes and examinations;

• the use of electronic forms of communication;

• the utilisation of computer-aided learning activities to enhance understanding;

• the performance of basic manipulations with laboratory equipment;

• the recording of observations, the analysis of information and the interpretation of data within a laboratory setting;

• accessing information from the library employing both electronic and traditional means.

• working collaboratively with other students;

• the use of conceptual models;

• problem solving; and

• critical thinking.

This subject is available for science credit to students enrolled in the BSc (both pre-2008 and new degrees), BASc or a combined BSc course.

A laboratory coat and safety glasses are required for laboratory activities.

It is recommended that students have access to a molecular model kit.

It is recommended that students who plan to major in Chemistry also enrol in two semesters of first year mathematics, for example MAST10005 Calculus 1, MAST10006 Calculus 2 and/or MAST10007 Linear Algebra.