Outcomes
A student:
› selects and processes appropriate qualitative and quantitative data and information using a range of appropriate media CH11/12-4
› analyses and evaluates primary and secondary data and information CH11/12-5
› solves scientific problems using primary and secondary data, critical thinking skills and scientific processes CH11/12-6
› communicates scientific understanding using suitable language and terminology for a specific audience or purpose CH11/12-7
› explains the characteristics of equilibrium systems, and the factors that affect these systems CH12-12
Content Focus
Chemical systems may be open or closed. They include physical changes and chemical reactions that can result in observable changes to a system. Students study the effects of changes in temperature, concentration of chemicals and pressure on equilibrium systems, and consider that these can be predicted by applying Le Chatelier’s principle. Students also analyse the quantitative relationship between products and reactants in equilibrium reactions to determine an equilibrium constant. From this calculation, they predict the equilibrium position, either favouring the formation of products or reactants in a chemical reaction.
This module also allows students to understand that scientific knowledge enables scientists to offer valid explanations and make reliable predictions. Students make reliable predictions by comparing equilibrium calculations and equilibrium constants to determine whether a combination of two solutions will result in the formation of a precipitate.
Working Scientifically
In this module, students focus on processing data to determine patterns and trends that enable them to solve problems and communicate scientific understanding of ideas about equilibrium reactions. Students should be provided with opportunities to engage with all the Working Scientifically skills throughout the course.
Extract from Chemistry Stage 6 Syllabus © 2017 NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA)