Australia · ACARA Content Descriptions
Year 12 Chemistry
This course explores advanced chemical principles through the lens of equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, and organic synthesis. Students investigate the relationship between molecular structure and macroscopic properties while applying quantitative analysis to complex chemical systems.
Equilibrium and Reversibility
Students examine the nature of reversible reactions and the factors that influence the position of chemical equilibrium in closed systems.
Introduction to the concept of reversibility and the dynamic nature of chemical equilibrium at the molecular level.
Predicting and explaining the response of a system at equilibrium to changes in temperature, pressure, and concentration.
Quantifying the position of equilibrium using the equilibrium constant and the reaction quotient.
Acid-Base Chemistry
An exploration of the Bronsted-Lowry model, pH scales, and the behavior of buffers in biological and industrial contexts.
Defining acids and bases as proton donors and acceptors and identifying conjugate pairs.
Investigating the logarithmic nature of pH and the distinction between concentration and strength.
Analyzing the mechanism of buffer solutions and performing precise volumetric analysis.
Redox and Electrochemistry
Investigating electron transfer reactions and their application in galvanic and electrolytic cells.
Tracking electron flow through oxidation numbers and half-equations.
Converting chemical energy into electrical energy through spontaneous redox reactions.
Using electrical energy to drive non-spontaneous chemical changes, including electroplating.
Organic Functional Groups
Studying the structure, properties, and nomenclature of diverse organic compounds including alcohols, aldehydes, and amines.
Systematic naming and drawing of organic molecules containing various functional groups.
Explaining boiling points and solubility based on hydrogen bonding, dipole-dipole, and dispersion forces.
Exploring substitution, addition, and oxidation reactions of organic compounds.
Polymers and Synthesis
Examining the formation of synthetic and natural polymers and the principles of green chemistry.
Comparing the mechanisms of polymer formation and the properties of the resulting materials.
Investigating the structure and function of essential biological macromolecules.
Applying the principles of atom economy and yield to design efficient industrial processes.
Analytical Techniques
Using sophisticated instrumental methods to identify the structure and composition of unknown substances.
Analyzing fragmentation patterns to determine relative molecular mass and structural components.
Identifying functional groups based on the absorption of infrared radiation by molecular bonds.
Determining the carbon-hydrogen framework of a molecule using nuclear magnetic resonance.