Course Introduction: Equilibria (SHS Chemistry)

Introduction
Equilibrium is one of the central themes in Chemistry and provides the foundation for understanding how reactions occur, how far they proceed, and how their conditions can be controlled. In Senior High School Chemistry, equilibria explain why some reactions stop before completion, why salts dissolve to certain limits, how acids and bases behave in solution, and how energy and conditions influence chemical yields.

This course introduces students to Chemical Equilibria, Ionic Equilibria, Solubility Equilibria, Acid–Base Equilibria, and Redox Equilibria, with both theoretical explanations and practical applications. Emphasis is placed on real-life applications such as industrial processes (Haber and Contact processes), buffer systems in biological systems, and titration experiments in the laboratory.

By completing this course, students will gain both the conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills needed to excel in Chemistry examinations (including WASSCE), as well as to appreciate the role of equilibria in daily life and industry.

Course Objectives

At the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Define and explain the concept of equilibrium and describe its dynamic nature.
2. Write and interpret equilibrium constant expressions (Kc, Kp, Ksp, Kw) and solve numerical problems.
3. Apply Le Chatelier’s principle to predict the effect of changes in temperature, pressure, and concentration on equilibrium position.
4. Explain solubility equilibria and calculate solubility product (Ksp) to predict precipitation reactions.
5. Understand ionic equilibria and the relationship between pH, pOH, Kw, and strength of acids and bases.
6. Describe and interpret titration curves for different combinations of acids and bases, and select appropriate indicators.
7. Analyze redox equilibria using electrode potentials, electrochemical cells, and the Nernst equation.
8. Relate equilibrium principles to industrial and biological systems, including the Haber and Contact processes and buffer systems in the human body.