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Unit 2: From Solutions to Kinetics to Equilibrium

Green chemistry industry icon

Introduction to Green Chemistry

STEM Explained

Green chemistry is a field that looks at the sustainability of products and processes designed by people.

Luke Humphries

Luke Humphries

Career Profiles

Director, Process Development

I lead teams of scientists to discover and develop the best ways of making drug molecules for clinical trials.
Hand writing chemical equations

Chemical Equations

Backgrounders

Learn about how to write and balance chemical equations.

Test tubes with colourful liquids

Evidence of Chemical Change

Backgrounders

Learn how to tell if a chemical reaction has taken place.

Electroplating equipment

Chemical Reactions: Conditions & Speeds

Backgrounders

Learn about the special conditions that let some chemical reactions take place.

Platinum crystals

Catalytic Converters

STEM Explained

Learn about how catalytic converters make vehicle emissions less harmful.

Scott Kelly et Terry Virts inspectent le système d’élimination du dioxyde de carbone de la SSI (Photo via Wikimedia Commons)

Carbon Dioxide on Earth and on the ISS

Backgrounders

Carbon dioxide is an important part of the air on Earth and in space. What is carbon dioxide? How is it measured? How can it affect us mentally and physically?

Cartoon of people cleaning teeth

How can chemistry help you take care of your teeth?

STEM Explained

What are your teeth made up of? What chemistry is at work in your mouth? Why do some people get cavities even if they brush regularly?

What speeds up a chemical reaction?

What speeds up a chemical reaction?

Hands-on Activities

Learn about the role of yeast in this fun decomposition reaction.

A set of lipstick in various colours

The Chemistry of Lipstick

STEM Explained

Learn about the organic compounds that make up lipstick as well as about some of the chemistry that goes into this popular cosmetic.

orn ethanol plant next to corn field

How is Ethanol Made?

Backgrounders

Ethanol is a biofuel that can power a car. Learn about the enzymes, catalysts and processes like fermentation involved in ethanol production.

Woman having a panic attack

Chemical Equilibrium and Panic Attacks

STEM Explained

Panic attacks are scary and they upset your body’s chemical equilibrium. Learn what happens to acids & bases in your circulatory system during a panic attack.

Opening can of pop

The Chemistry of Pop

STEM Explained

There’s a lot of cool chemistry in a can of pop! Learn how solubility, chemical equilibrium, acids & bases and gas laws work in some of your favourite drinks.