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 The Bonding, Properties & Structure of Matter section of the AQA Chemistry specification covers the different types of chemical bonding—ionic, covalent, and metallic—and how these influence the properties of substances. It includes the structure and properties of giant ionic lattices, simple covalent molecules, giant covalent structures (like diamond and graphite), and metallic bonding. The section also explores how bonding affects melting and boiling points, conductivity, and solubility. Additionally, it covers the three states of matter, changes of state, and the particle model, as well as the unique properties of nanoparticles and their uses in industry and medicine. 

 The Atomic Structure & Periodic Table section of the AQA Chemistry specification covers the fundamental structure of atoms, including protons, neutrons, and electrons, as well as isotopes and relative atomic mass. It explores the development of atomic models over time, from Dalton to Bohr, and how experimental evidence led to changes in our understanding of the atom. The section also includes electronic structure and how it relates to an element’s position in the periodic table. The periodic table is studied in detail, including the arrangement of elements in groups and periods, the trends in reactivity of Group 1 (alkali metals) and Group 7 (halogens), and the properties of Group 0 (noble gases). The transition metals and their unique properties are also introduced. 

 The Chemical Changes section of the AQA Chemistry specification covers reactions of acids, including neutralisation with bases and alkalis, and the production of salts. It explores the reactivity series of metals, displacement reactions, and how metals are extracted from their ores using reduction or electrolysis. Electrolysis is covered in detail, including the movement of ions, half-equations at electrodes, and its applications such as aluminium extraction and electrolysis of aqueous solutions. The section also includes strong and weak acids, pH, and the difference between concentrated and dilute acids. Students will develop an understanding of how chemical changes are used in industry and everyday life. 

 The Energy Changes section of the AQA Chemistry specification covers exothermic and endothermic reactions, including how energy is transferred during chemical reactions. It includes required practicals to measure temperature changes in reactions such as neutralisation, combustion, and displacement. The section explores reaction profiles, activation energy, and how bond breaking is endothermic while bond making is exothermic. It also covers calculating energy changes using bond energies. Additionally, students learn about the use of cells and batteries, including how simple cells produce electricity and the factors affecting their voltage. The section concludes with an introduction to fuel cells, particularly hydrogen fuel cells, and their advantages and disadvantages.