UBC CHEM 123

Physical and Organic Chemistry with Applications to Thermodynamics and Reaction Mechanisms

CHEM 123 is a foundational course designed for students in science, engineering, and health-related programs. The course explores key concepts in physical and organic chemistry, including thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, and an introduction to reaction mechanisms. These topics are essential for building a deeper understanding of chemistry’s role in scientific and industrial applications.

Video Samples

Explore these sample tutoring videos to get a glimpse of our personalized learning approach.

Modes of tutoring available

Video Lectures list

Acid base (1)(up to buffers)
Buffer/Ideal Gas/Internal energy/Work/Heat
Heat and Calorimetry
Standard Enthalpy/Hesses law/Entropy
Entropy and Gibbs Free energy
Midterm1 (Reversible/Irreversible covered)
Delta G*/Delta G/Van't Huff
Kinetics 1
Kinetics 2
Kinetics 3
Kinetics 3
Line bond, Hybdridization, Functional groups
Nomenclature 1
Nomenclature 2
Resonance 1
Resonance 2
Acid base 1
Acid base 2
Midterm 2 prep (Physical)
Midterm 2 prep (Ochem)
Newman Projection/Bond Rotation/Conformers/Intro to chairs
Chair Conformation/Double Newman
Chair stability/Compound Comparison/Chair Delta G
E/Z Alkene, Cis and Trans, Intro to Chiral carbons
Asymmetric centre and R/S configuration
Chira/achiral molecules and intro to Stereochemistry
Molecule Comparison/Optical Activity
Fischer Projection and Introduction to Substitution
Sn2
Sn1 and Sn1 vs. Sn2
Physical Chemistry Review session (3hr)
Ochem Chemistry Review session (3hr)

Our Teaching Philosophy

Extensive Explanation with Real-Life Applications

We break down complex chemistry concepts into manageable steps, using everyday examples to show how they apply to the real world.

Focus on Understanding Over Memorization

We emphasize building a solid conceptual foundation, helping you solve problems by understanding core principles rather than relying solely on memorization.

Interactive Problem-Solving and Practice

Through hands-on practice problems, personalized strategies, and detailed feedback, we help you master challenging topics like thermodynamics and reaction mechanisms with confidence.

Testimonials

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