The introductory unit CHEM101 is designed for students with no previous chemistry experience. The units at 100 level lay a foundation for subsequent development of chemical knowledge and techniques at 200 and 300 level. However, these are no longer formal prerequisites, although they are specified as part of some degree programs such as BSc DipChemInd and BSc in Analytical Chemistry. Moreover, students seeking professional accreditation by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute require a foundation of 100-level MATH and PHYS units.
Special assistance is offered to students who lack assumed knowledge in mathematics or physics.
This unit has no prerequisites and provides an introduction to the principles and practical aspects of chemistry. It is primarily intended as a bridge for people lacking HSC Chemistry, to prepare them for entry to units CHEM102 and CHEM103 . Elements and compounds are classified in terms of their observed properties, the periodic table and structural insights. Many aspects of science aim to connect observations, either in the laboratory or in the everyday world, with chemical principles. This 100-level core unit concentrates on physical, inorganic and general chemistry.