Subject details

Upon successful completion of this subject you should be able to:

  1. communicate (including read and write) in the language of chemistry; interpreting and using chemical symbols, conventions and nomenclature
  2. apply concepts of chemical structure to explain the properties of matter, exploit different types of chemical reactions to create new molecules, and evaluate the extent to which reactions may occur
  3. employ the scientific method that supports evidence-based practice
  4. manipulate quantitative relationships to solve chemistry problems.
  • Topics
    • Introduction to Chemistry
    • Organic Chemistry
    • Physical Principles of Chemistry
  • Study resources
    • Online Materials
      • Resources and Links
      • Quizzes
      • Online Assessment
      • Audio-Video streaming
      • FAQs
      • Simulations
      • Resources and Links

Entry Requirements

Equivalent Subjects

You cannot enrol in this unit if you have successfully completed any of the following subject(s) because they are considered academically equivalent:

Special requirements

  • OtherDetails -

    This subject is offered via Open Universities Australia. La Trobe University students can undertake this subject as part of a cross institutional enrolment under certain circumstances, and must seek approval from the Bachelor of Food and Nutrition Course Coordinator for eligibility. Due to the nature of the subject content and online delivery, enrolments are generally not permitted past the published OUA enrolment date for the study period.

Essentials of Chemistry is an introductory subject for students with minimal background or no previous study in chemistry. The subject introduces chemistry topics with a real-world focus to prepare students for further studies in chemistry and related fields of science. The subject will introduce and reinforce chemistry concepts, knowledge and skills in chemistry to enable students to apply chemical principles and practice during their studies and in future employment.

Module 1: General Chemistry (6 weeks) covers matter, atoms, the periodic table, chemical bonding, naming compounds, molecular geometry, atomic masses, the mole and chemical reactions. 

Module 2: Organic Chemistry (3 weeks) covers alkanes, alkenes, alkynes and arenes, functional groups and reaction types.

Module 3: Physical Chemistry (3 weeks) covers gases, energy in chemistry, chemical kinetics, equilibria, acids and bases.

  • Assignment 1 - Module Assessment Quizzes (1500 word equiv) (40%)
  • Assignment 2 - Scenario-based Problems (1250 word equiv) (30%)
  • Assignment 3 - Practical Exercises (750 word equiv) (20%)
  • Assignment 4 - Topic discussions (500 word equiv) (10%)

Textbooks are subject to change within the academic year. Students are advised to purchase their books no earlier than one to two months before the start of a subject.

View textbooks

Related degrees

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Food and Nutrition