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About This Unit
In this unit, we will study chemical reactions, which are changes where atoms are rearranged to form new substances. This builds on the previous unit about physical changes, where particles may move differently or change phase, but the substances themselves stay the same.
We will learn how to recognize evidence that a chemical reaction has occurred and how to represent reactions using balanced chemical equations, complete ionic equations, and net ionic equations. These equations help us show what is happening at the particle level, including which atoms, ions, or molecules are actually changing.
A major focus of this unit is using stoichiometry to calculate the amounts of reactants and products in a reaction. You will practice using mole-to-mole ratios from balanced equations, determining limiting reactants, and applying these ideas to lab situations such as titrations.
On the AP Chemistry Exam, students are expected to explain reactions using equations, particle-level reasoning, and calculations. Strong answers should not only identify the type of reaction, such as acid-base, precipitation, or redox, but also justify that choice using evidence from the equation or data.
Essential Questions
- How can we use observations, experimental data, and particle-level models to tell the difference between physical and chemical changes?
- How do balanced chemical equations show the rearrangement of atoms during a chemical reaction?
- How do complete ionic and net ionic equations help us identify what is actually changing in a reaction?
- How can stoichiometry help us predict the amounts of reactants needed and products formed?
- How can we use mole ratios, dimensional analysis, and limiting reactants to solve quantitative reaction problems?
- How do titration data, graphs, and calculations show the relationships between reactants and products?
- How can classifying reactions, including acid-base and redox reactions, help us explain what is happening at the atomic or molecular level?
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