Chemistry

Course Overview

A-level chemistry is an exciting course that investigates how and why chemical phenomena occur. Practical skills are developed through regular investigations that will enable you to apply your understanding of chemistry throughout the course.   At LUSoM, we study chemistry in a more mathematical way than you would be able to at other colleges which means you can gain a deeper understanding of the why chemistry works the way it does.  Not only are we concerned with what reactions are occurring, but we will also look at the conditions needed for these reactions and how these can be manipulated to give the most desirable outcomes.   We will also delve into the world of organic chemistry to understand the way that atoms and electrons behave on the molecular level. The study of inorganic chemistry allows us to look at the reactions of colourful transition metal complexes and how their electrons interact.  

Key Topics to Study

  • Physical Chemistry
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry

Required Practical Component

1. Make up a volumetric solution and carry out a simple acid–base titration

2. Measurement of an enthalpy change

3. Investigation of how the rate of a reaction changes with temperature

4. Carry out simple test-tube reactions to identify cations and anions

5. Distillation of a product from a reaction

6. Tests for alcohol, aldehyde, alkene and carboxylic acid

7. Measuring the rate of reaction

8. Measuring the EMF of an electrochemical cell

9. Investigate how pH changes when a weak acid reacts with a strong base and when a strong acid reacts with a weak base

10. Preparation of a pure organic substance and test of its purity

11. Carry out simple test-tube reactions to identify transition metal ions in aqueous solution

12. Separation of species by thin-layer chromatography

Assessment Structure

Paper 1 (35 %)

All Inorganic

Paper 2 (35 %)

All Organic

Paper 3 (30 %)

All Content

Practical Skills

Exam Board

AQA

Entry Requirements

7 in chemistry or 77 in combined science and 8 in maths.

Enrich your Experience

  • Opportunity for annual trip to Manchester University for a day of exhilarating chemistry which will take students from key concepts learnt in the classroom to the latest advancements in chemical research.
  • Through five engaging lectures students will meet experienced scientists from academia and industry and be inspired to become the scientists of the future.