In 2017, a new Chemistry study design was introduced into the VCE curriculum for Units 3 and 4. One cohort of students have completed this course, finished the exam and are awaiting their results. You are now the new cohort of students who will be beginning that journey in 2018.
So, what exactly do you need to know for Unit 3 Chemistry?
This article will focus (in general terms) on what has been listed out in the study design for you to know. In a later article, we will explore the key concepts that you will need to know from Units 1 and 2 Chemistry in order to be prepared for Units 3 and 4 Chemistry.
There are two areas of studies in Unit 3. In the first area of study, you will be exploring the ways energy can be produced which includes:
- Fossil Fuels
- Biofuels
- Galvanic Cells
- Fuel Cells
In addition to that, you will also be looking at calculations associated with the combustion of fuels as in most cases to obtain energy from certain fuel sources, we need to perform a combustion reaction. This means stoichiometry will come into play here!!
In the second area of study, the focus shifts to how you can increase the yield of a chemical product. Therefore, you will be looking at the rate of a chemical reaction, and exploring the factors which affect the rate of a chemical reaction. You will also focus on the extent of a chemical reaction and how you can increase product yield. This part of the topic requires an understanding of ‘equilibrium’ and Le Chatelier’s Principle. Finally, you will also look at how chemicals can be produced via a process known as electrolysis.
This is just a brief overview of what you can expect in Unit 3 Chemistry. My advice for you if you want to prepare for Unit 3 Chemistry, is to sit down and have a read of the study design; there is a lot of detail contained in the study design telling you what you need to know in order to succeed in Unit 3 Chemistry.
TIP: If you want to begin making your notes, use the headings in the study design as a template for your notes. The study design contains what you need to know about the course.
Good luck and keep an eye out for the next article where we will be exploring the concepts from Units 1 and 2 Chemistry that are relevant in Units 3 and 4 Chemistry.
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