Studying A-Level Chemistry will give you insight into the physical universe. Chemistry touches every aspect of our lives from the bodily functions within us to the atmosphere around us.
Through the work carried out by leading scientists in this field, we are able to make advances in many areas of life. Whether that’s finding more sustainable way of harnessing energy or making medical advancements.
Chemistry is often referred to as a central science as it combines physics, biology, mathematics and medicine. Through Chemistry we are able to explain biological and physical phenomena that cannot be understood through one science alone.
A Level Chemistry could be the first step through a rewarding academic journey at university and beyond. You could find yourself in a chemistry or biology related degree depending on what you choose to follow.
If you’re eager to make sense of the world alongside other brilliant minds, A-Level Chemistry is a step in the right direction.
What you’ll learn
A Level Chemistry will cover the fundamentals of Physical, Organic and Inorganic Chemistry. You’ll cover a range of topics to help you decide where you want your career to go.
By the end of your studies you’ll have gained an understanding of important theories and principles of chemistry. As well as developed your critical thinking and analytical skills.
What is Physical Chemistry?
Physical Chemistry is the study of the physical structure of chemical compounds. You’ll explore how chemicals react with one another and the bonds that hold them together.
Physical Chemistry is used in everyday life whether that’s baking or in medicinal fields. The knowledge we have gained from understanding chemical compounds and how they interact has been life changing.
Modules you’ll cover include:
- Atomic structure
- Amount of substance
- Bonding
- Energetics
- Kinetics
- Chemical equilibria
- Oxidation
- Thermodynamics
- Rate equations
- Equilibrium constant
- Electrode potentials and electrochemical cells
- Acids and bases
Upon completion of this module you’ll be able to analyse and interpret data. As well as sound understanding of the core principles of physical chemistry.
What is Inorganic Chemistry?
Inorganic chemistry is concerned with the properties and behaviour of inorganic compounds, which include metals, minerals, and organometallic compounds.
Typically, an inorganic compound is a chemical compound that lacks carbon-hydrogen bonds.
This part of the course will cover:
- Periodicity
- Alkaline earth metals
- Halogens
- Properties of Period 3 elements and their oxides
- Transition metals
- Reactions of ions in aqueous solution
Inorganic chemistry is used to study and develop catalysts, coatings, fuels, surfactants, materials, superconductors, and medicines.
What is Organic Chemistry?
Organic chemistry is a branch of chemistry that studies the structure, properties and reactions of organic compounds, which contain carbon in covalent bonding.
These structurally diverse compounds vary from naturally occurring petroleum fuels to DNA and the molecules in living systems.
Many of these compounds are used as drugs, medicines and plastics.
Organic chemistry will cover:
- Introduction to organic chemistry
- Alkanes
- Halogenoalkanes
- Alkenes
- Alcohols
- Organic analysis
- Optical Isomerism
- Aldehydes and ketones
- Carboxylic acids and derivatives
- Aromatic chemistry
- Amines
- Polymers
- Amino acids, proteins and DNA
- Organic synthesis
- Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
- Chromatography
There is a broad range of sectors for employment within organic chemistry including, industry, healthcare and research.
Why study A-Level Chemistry?
A Level Chemistry allows you to develop your understanding of chemistry by delving deeper into the subject than at GCSE. Through your studies you’ll form independent theories and areas of interest which you could take further at university and beyond.
Because of the broad range of topics you’ll cover you’ll be able to make an informed decision on your trajectory. A Level Chemistry can be the first step in helping you realise your ambitions in achieving an exciting job role.
If you continue your journey after A-Level Chemistry you could find yourself in a rewarding career such as:
- Analytical, Formulation, Medicinal or Process Chemist
- Biotechnologist
- Chemical Engineer
- Drug Discovery and Chemical Industries
- Environmental, Forensic or Materials Scientist
- Food Technologist
- Geochemical Engineer
- Nanotechnologist
- Pharmacologist
- Science Writer
- Scientific Laboratory Technician
- Teacher
- Toxicologist
These job roles stretch across multiple industries and can have you working on some ground-breaking areas of science and technology.
Studying an A-Level from home
Studying an online A Level means you’re able to study at the right time for you. Whether that’s in the morning before work or whilst the children are at school, you’re in control.
You won’t have to worry about how you’re going to get from work to class because there aren’t any. You’re able to log in in whenever you choose and begin learning.
You can set the pace and place so that you’re able to enjoy your learning experience. The only thing you need to keep in mind is your exam date.
Exams are usually in May/June so make sure you’re able to work through the whole course in plenty of time.
A Levels must be regulated by Ofqual regardless of who provides them. So, you’re getting the same qualification whether you attend college or not.
A dedicated and experienced tutor will also be there to support you throughout your learning. They’ll offer you constructive feedback on your assignments and any other assistance when needed to prepare you for exams.
The course itself isn’t just copied from a textbook and uploaded online. Thought and planning go into designing an A Level course more suited to an adult audience.
You’ll find the course content is far more relatable and therefore allows you to enjoy your learning more.
Whatever path you choose to pursue A-Level Chemistry could be the first step towards your exciting career in science.
learndirect is one of the UK’s leading online learning providers. Offering a variety of accredited A-Levels.
We offer flexible payment options to help you spread the cost and an expert tutor to guide you through your studies.
To learn more about how to prepare for your distance learning course read our blog here.
If you’re ready to get back into education get in touch with one of our advisers or enrol online today.
