Grammar Gazette- Issue 1, 2023

FROM THE STUDENTS Chemistry

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From our investigation of the states of matter in the early stages of Year 7 Science, to the more advanced studies of electrochemistry and organic compounds, Chemistry has proven to be a captivating subject that explores the complex inner workings of the world around us down to the single atom. Through our study of this subject, we gain understanding of the underlying principles that govern chemical reactions— providing us with a deep appreciation of the intricacies of nature. For this reason, I have found Chemistry to be a highly rewarding subject that encourages both curiosity and provides answers to a wide range of open-ended questions such as ‘how does my phone battery work?’ or ‘what chemical properties make a plastic biodegradable?’ However, after many detailed research investigations and data tests, my favourite part of this subject is undoubtedly, the student experiments. So far this year, Year 12 chemists have participated in many hands-on experiments focusing on oxidation and reduction reactions. Through these practical activities, we explored processes such as the corrosion of a steel nail, which explained not only why rust forms, but what measures can be taken by engineers and architects to minimise the damaging effects of corrosion on their underground steel pipelines, bridge pillars, and ships. More than Matter WHILE EXPERIMENTS A RE A HIGHLIGHT, CHEMISTRY A LSO EXPLORES RE A L-WORLD SCEN A RIOS A ND PROBLEMS Lucy Williamson (12W)

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In another experiment, we determined the precise chemical composition of a Fefol ® iron tablet by observing the brilliant purple change to colourless when potassium permanganate is titrated into an acidic solution containing the tablet. This investigation gave us valuable insight into how the pharmaceutical industry applies the theory Year 12 chemists learn—to develop, manufacture and test the medicines we consume in our daily lives. The experiment I have found the most fascinating so far explored the chemical principles underpinning the production of electricity. By assembling a simple galvanic cell, Year 12 Chemistry students were able to clearly see how a single chemical reaction can drive the production of electrical energy, which can then be harnessed to power a small light bulb, or even entire vehicles. It is this ability to see the theoretical concepts that we discuss in the classroom play into action, that is one of the major privileges of studying Chemistry. It guides us away from memorising formulas and equations, and toward practical scenarios that aren’t as black and white as a textbook problem. These experiments instead require both a deeper understanding of the subject matter, and the ability to consider the opportunities and limitations we face when applying clear-cut concepts to more complicated real-world issues. Ultimately, we learn to apply advanced analytical techniques to interpret results.

CAPTIONS 1 LUCY WILLIAMSON (12W) 2 LUCY AND EVE THOMAS (12W) PERFORMING AN EXPERIMENT IN CLASS

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BRISBANE GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL

GAZETTE • ISSUE 1, 2023 ISSUE 1, 2023