This unit will provide you with an understanding of the fundamental principles of chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, redox chemistry, equilibrium, pH, basic spectroscopy and organic reactions and mechanisms. You will learn about reactions and how they can be manipulated. You will be introduced to a range of chemical calculations involving rates, cell potentials, equilibrium constants, and pH, as well as techniques for analysing spectral data for chemical structure determination. This unit will provide a strong foundation for further studies in analytical and materials sciences, physical and organic chemistry. This unit has a compulsory residential school. These laboratory sessions will emphasise laboratory safety and compliance, and introduce you to skills relating to sample preparation, data collection, synthesis, spectroscopic analyses and report writing.

Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.

Feedback from SUTE

Students noted that some lectures were outdated, and the pre-recorded videos had poor sound and occasional glitches, making the content hard to follow.

To enhance learning, the Unit Coordinator should update lecture content to reflect current knowledge and, where possible, re-record or edit videos to improve comprehension and engagement.

Feedback from SUTE

Students praised the residential school for helping them apply their knowledge practically and supporting their personal growth.

Positive student feedback highlights the value of hands-on activities in the laboratory manual, which the Unit Coordinator and team should continue to use and update where possible to enhance engagement and practical application of theoretical knowledge.