Physical Chemistry
12 topics covering the quantitative and theoretical foundations of chemistry.
AS Topics (Year 1)
3.1.1 Atomic Structure
Particles, mass spec, electron configuration, ionisation energies.
→3.1.2 Amount of Substance
Moles, ideal gas equation, empirical formula, equations, yield.
→3.1.3 Bonding
Ionic, covalent, metallic bonding. Shapes, electronegativity, forces.
→3.1.4 Energetics
Enthalpy changes, calorimetry, Hess's law, bond enthalpies.
→3.1.5 Kinetics
Collision theory, Maxwell-Boltzmann, activation energy, catalysts.
→3.1.6 Chemical Equilibria & Kc
Le Chatelier's principle, equilibrium constant Kc, calculations.
→3.1.7 Oxidation, Reduction & Redox
Oxidation states, half equations, redox reactions.
→A2 Topics (Year 2)
3.1.8 Thermodynamics
Born-Haber cycles, entropy, Gibbs free energy.
→3.1.9 Rate Equations
Rate laws, orders, rate constant, Arrhenius equation.
→3.1.10 Equilibrium Constant Kp
Mole fractions, partial pressures, Kp calculations.
→3.1.11 Electrode Potentials & Cells
Standard electrode potentials, EMF, electrochemical cells, fuel cells.
→3.1.12 Acids & Bases
pH, Ka, Kw, buffer solutions, titration curves.
→