AP Chemistry

  • Course Description

    AP Chemistry is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first year of college. This course is demanding in both the time commitment and level of work required of the students. In AP Chemistry, students learn about the fundamental concepts of chemistry such as structure and states of matter, intermolecular forces, reactions, and how to use chemical calculations to solve problems. The main topics covered in this course include equilibrium, electrochemistry, thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, chemical bonding, properties of light and quantum mechanics, and the phases of matter. Students also complete AP Chemistry labs, which focus on the ability to express ideas with clarity and logic. Students work with classmates to conduct laboratory investigations that involve observing chemical reactions and substances, interpreting findings, and communicating experimental results. Students are expected to take the AP Chemistry exam in May. A link to the College Boards official AP Chemistry website can be found here.

    Topics:

    First Semester

    I. General Chemistry
    II. Equilibrium
    III. Solubility
    IV. Acids and Bases
    V. Electrochemistry

    Second Semester

    VI. Thermodynamics
    VII. Reaction Kinetics
    VIII. Quantum Mechanics, Periodic Trends, & Bonding
    Ix. Phases and Phase Changes

    Additional Topics:

    Nuclear Chemistry
    Organic Chemistry

    Prerequisite: Chemistry (an A or a B in Chemistry is HIGHLY recommended). 
    Minimum math co-requisite: Algebra II (PreCalc/Calc A is HIGHLY recommended).