Year 12 Unit 3 Chemistry, Chemistry students, learn that chemistry is the ultimate life metaphor, focusing on reaction rate equations and Maxwell-Boltzmann diagrams, they slowly realize that chemistry isn’t just about molecules. Just like a sluggish reaction desperately needs a catalyst, they, too, need caffeine in the form of Coffee or some sickly-sweet energy drink to speed up their productivity. Le Chatelier’s principle teaches them that life, like chemical equilibrium, is a cruel force—push too hard one way, and the universe shoves back to restore balance, usually in the form of an all-nighter before an exam. And Maxwell-Boltzmann? Well, let’s just say at the end of term they relate a little too much to that little fraction of molecules with low energy—the ones barely crawling through their study notes while their other classmates zoom past, existing at peak kinetic energy. Chemistry isn’t just science—it’s survival.
Year 12 Chemistry students quickly learn that life, much like reaction kinetics, demands practice—because no one perfects their equilibrium shifts on the first try. Le Chatelier’s Principle teaches them that forcing change often leads to unintended consequences—just like trying to cram for an exam overnight usually results in exhaustion rather than enlightenment. Maxwell-Boltzmann diagrams remind them that energy distribution isn’t fair—some students race through questions and problems with high kinetic energy, while others struggle just to get their reaction started. And lab work? Well, that’s where they realize that despite meticulous planning, something will inevitably go wrong—pipettes will slip, solutions will misbehave, and someone will forget to zero the balance. But that’s the beauty of chemistry, and life—it’s messy, frustrating, and sometimes surprising, but with enough practice (and maybe a little caffeine), it all comes together in the end. Just don’t lick the spoon.
Well done Yr 12 Chem Catz for Unit 3, you’ve got this, I believe in you.
Henryka Benson