Chemistry - International Foundation

Module description

This module will provide you with an in-depth introduction to the chemistry skills and knowledge required for successful undergraduate study. The module is delivered through a combination of theoretical lectures, problem-solving tutorials and laboratory based practicals. It will develop essential knowledge and understanding of concepts of chemistry, and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing situations.

Assessment details

You are assessed through a combination of coursework (50%) and final exam (50%).

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, you will:

• Recognise, recall and show understanding of specific chemical facts, terminology, principles, concepts and practical techniques.
• Select, organise and communicate relevant information clearly and logically, in a variety of forms.
• Apply scientific knowledge and processes to unfamiliar situations, including those related to public issues.
• Assess the validity, reliability and credibility of scientific information within the field of chemistry.
• Make, record and communicate reliable and valid observations and measurements with appropriate precision and accuracy.
• Analyse, interpret, explain and evaluate the methodology and results.
• Organise information clearly and coherently, using specialist vocabulary where appropriate.

Teaching pattern

During this module, you will cover key issues in the following areas:

Atomic structure

• Bonding

Empirical and molecular formulae

• Balanced equations and associated calculations

Periodicity

• Organic chemistry; nomenclature, isomerism, group properties
• Alkanes, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, carboxylic acids, amines

Energy

• Enthalpy change (_H)
• Calorimetry
• Simple applications of Hess’s Law
• Bond enthalpies

Kinetics

• Collision theory
• Reaction rates
• Catalysts

Equilibria

• Le Chatelier’s principle

Redox Reactions

• Transfer of electrons, hydrogen or oxygen

Analytical techniques

• Mass spectrometry
• Infrared spectroscopy
• HPLC
• X-ray crystallography

Properties of solutions

• Concentrations
• Ionic strength
• Osmolarity
• Osmotic pressure
• Freezing points

Acids & bases

• pH buffers

Suggested reading list

During your course, you will be required to do a lot of reading. It is not necessary to purchase all books, but you should try and ensure you have access to some of the following:

Required textbook	Recommended textbooks
Atkins P. & Jones L. Chemical Principles 3rd Edn. (2005) Library: FWB QD33.2 ATK (10 copies)	Hill J.W., Petrucci R.H., McGreary T.W. & Perry S.S. General Chemistry 4th Edn. (2005) Library: FWB QD31.2 HIL ISBN: 0131271806 (10 copies)
	Houscroft C. & Constable E. Chemistry (2002) Library: FWB QD31.2 HOU ISBN: 0130869244 (6 copies)

Useful websites

• S-cool
• A-level Chemistry
  
• Doc Brown

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.