AP Chemistry is a rigorous, college-level course designed to give students a deep understanding of chemical principles and scientific practices. The course emphasizes inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills as students explore topics such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, electrochemistry, and more.

Through hands-on laboratory investigations, students apply theoretical concepts to experimental data, developing essential skills in data analysis, experimental design, and error evaluation. The course follows the framework set by the College Board, preparing students for the AP Chemistry exam while fostering a strong foundation for further studies in science, engineering, and health-related fields.

AP Chemistry challenges students to think conceptually and mathematically, making it an excellent choice for those interested in pursuing STEM disciplines. The course not only strengthens scientific literacy but also enhances students’ ability to communicate their findings effectively using claims, evidence, and reasoning.

For students who enjoy problem-solving, laboratory work, and real-world applications of chemistry, AP Chemistry offers a rewarding and intellectually stimulating experience.

Units of Study

• 1 Atomic Structure and Properties – Explores atomic models, electron configurations, and periodic trends such as ionization energy and atomic radius. Students analyze how atomic structure influences chemical behavior.
• 2 Compound Structure and Properties – Examines bonding types (ionic, covalent, and metallic), molecular geometry, polarity, and intermolecular forces to predict the physical and chemical properties of compounds.
• 3 Properties of Substances and Mixtures – Investigates the classification of matter, phase changes, and solution chemistry, including colligative properties and factors affecting solubility.
• 4 Chemical Reactions – Covers different reaction types, balancing chemical equations, oxidation-reduction processes, and reaction stoichiometry, with an emphasis on predicting products and understanding reaction mechanisms.
• 5 Kinetics – Analyzes reaction rates, rate laws, reaction mechanisms, and the effect of concentration, temperature, and catalysts on reaction speed. Students apply collision theory and interpret experimental data.
• 6 Thermochemistry – Focuses on energy changes in chemical reactions, covering enthalpy, calorimetry, Hess’s Law, and heat transfer in exothermic and endothermic reactions.
• 7 Equilibrium – Introduces dynamic equilibrium, the equilibrium constant (K), Le Chatelier’s Principle, and the relationship between reaction conditions and equilibrium shifts in chemical systems.
• 8 Acids and Bases – Explores acid-base properties, pH, titrations, buffer solutions, and equilibrium concepts such as Ka, Kb, and the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation.
• 9 Thermodynamics and Electrochemistry – Investigates entropy, Gibbs free energy, and spontaneity of reactions, along with electrochemical cells, standard reduction potentials, and applications of redox reactions in energy production.