Introduction to Chemistry

What the unit covers

This unit sits in the Foundations of Chemistry strand of the Chemistry subject. The resources start with the basics: atoms, elements, compounds, mixtures and the language used to describe them. Many are tied to exams the listed resources mention, such as GCSE Chemistry, AQA GCSE Chemistry, AS Chemistry, A-level Chemistry, AP Chemistry and MCAT.

Where to start

Begin with vocabulary. The Key terms of chemistry flashcards cover exothermic changes, physical and chemical properties, diffusion, isotopes and relative atomic mass. Chemistry Keywords adds matter, solids, liquids, gases, solute, solvent and solubility. If you are on a GCSE course, Key definitions in GCSE Chemistry asks what an atom is, what atomic number and mass number mean, and how an atom differs from an ion.

Moving on to bonding and structure

Next, try the AQA Chemistry Unit 2 flashcards. They ask you to draw a sodium ion and a water molecule, and to explain how ions form and what ionic compounds are. The AQA Chemistry Core mind map links protons, neutrons, the nucleus, electron arrangement and positive and negative ions. For university-level or MCAT-style work, the MCAT Chemistry Study - Atomic Structure deck covers electronegativity, the Pauli exclusion principle, the Aufbau principle and ionisation energy.

Using quizzes and maps together

1. Read a mind map first to see how the ideas connect.
2. Take a quiz such as Exam 2, which asks about the valence shell, ionic bonding and electronegativity.
3. Note the questions you missed and go back to the matching flashcards.
4. Retake the quiz a few days later.

For a wider check, MCAT Chemistry Practice Test and Chemistry Final Practice Test give longer practice.

Make it your own

Teachers can pick a ready-made deck or quiz for a class. Everyone can open these resources free, so choose one that matches your course and make a start. If a topic is missing, you can build your own set.