Syllabus
The syllabus for AP Chemistry typically includes the following topics:
- Atomic structure and the periodic table
- Structure of the atom
- Quantum mechanics and electron configuration
- Periodic trends
- Chemical bonding and molecular structure
- Ionic and covalent bonding
- Lewis structures
- VSEPR theory and molecular geometry
- Hybridization
- States of matter
- Gas laws and kinetic molecular theory
- Intermolecular forces and properties of liquids and solids
- Chemical reactions
- Stoichiometry
- Reaction types and balancing equations
- Thermochemistry and thermodynamics
- Chemical equilibrium
- Kinetics
- Reaction rates and rate laws
- Reaction mechanisms
- Catalysts and reaction energy diagrams
- Chemical equilibrium
- Equilibrium constants
- Le Chatelier’s principle
- Acid-base equilibria
- Solubility equilibria
- Acids and bases
- Bronsted-Lowry theory
- Acid-base titrations
- pH and pOH
- Applications of thermodynamics
- Entropy and Gibbs free energy
- Spontaneity and equilibrium
- Electrochemistry
- Redox reactions and balancing equations
- Electrochemical cells
- Standard reduction potentials
- Electrolysis
The AP Chemistry exam typically consists of multiple choice and free response questions that assess the students’ understanding and application of these topics. The course also involves laboratory work to help students develop their experimental skills and understanding of scientific methodology.