Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On the completion of this subject students will be able to understand better the periodic table and periodic properties of the elements and some of their compounds; encounter concepts and models which allow insight and understanding into the bonding and structure of a variety of simple inorganic and organic molecules; understand aspects of isomerism and stereochemistry for a variety of hydrocarbon (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes) and related materials; understand the pretransition elements, their compounds, their chemistry and their importance to man; recognise and understand the structure, properties, preparation and important reactions of some of the classes of organic chemicals; review some of the important physical properties of solutions and the equations which describe them; review crystal packing concepts and use them to classify metals and simple ionic AX type compounds.
Synopsis This subject is designed to enhance the student's prior knowledge in chemistry to the equivalent of that covered by GAS1281 and GAS1282 combined. This level of chemical expertise in combination with GAS1186 and GAS1384 then forms the basis for a variety of further studies at the second-year level in the chemical, biological and physical sciences. This subject provides a general introduction to the following areas: chemical periodicity; molecular structure; chemical kinetics; pretransition elements; structure and properties of carbon compounds; physical chemistry of solutions. The subject is taught by lectures, tutorials and laboratory classes whilst for distance education students a comprehensive set of study guides is provided. Students will undertake their studies in common with students in subjects GAS1281 and GAS1282 where possible.
Assessment Theory component progressive assessment: 85% + Laboratory component: 15% + Satisfactory performances in both theory and laboratory components are required in order to pass the subject + Tutorial attendance (for Gippsland students) and performance on feedback assignments (for distance education students) will be taken into account in deciding a final grade for the case of students whose marks are `borderline' + Relevance of laboratory work to theoretical study: laboratory exercises are used to extend theoretical understanding as well as develop practical skills.