Chemistry

Course summary

Chemists have wondered for centuries about what matter is made from and how substances react. We now have an excellent understanding of atoms and what governs how they behave. Atoms and the particles they are made from, particularly electrons, dictate everything in the world around us, from how plants grow to how we generate the electricity we use every day. A quick glance around your bathroom will reveal products that owe their existence to the Chemist. Pharmaceutics, hair products, soap and cosmetics have all been tested in the laboratory by quality control chemists before being put on sale. Wherever you look, you can see the work of the Chemist - pure water for drinking, carbon dioxide for fizzy drinks and the refrigerants to keep food cool. Similarly, our transport system relies on fuel refined by Chemists, who are also responsible for the development of lubricants to ensure the smooth running of the engine and catalytic converters to prevent pollution. The list is endless, and we can expect many more civilization changing discoveries in this century. The study of Chemistry, with its uniquely wide span within the scientific spectrum, is an excellent way to develop your intellect. You acquire not only a powerful battery of analytical skills for problem solving, but also the ability to analyze critically and to ask the relevant questions. These skills are transferable to almost any context, and are highly valued in the world of commerce and finance. You will learn to use sophisticated instrumentation and equipment to investigate the world around you, and become adept in laboratory work and data analysis. Lastly, be able to apply the principles of chemistry to solve qualitative and quantitative problems.