Enquiry for Science Major/Minor/Programme Requirements
CHEM1011 Chemistry foundation for biomedical engineering (6 credits) Academic Year 2026
Offering Department Chemistry Quota 70
Course Co-ordinator Dr K K H Ng, Chemistry < kkhn3@hku.hk >
Teachers Involved (Dr K K H Ng,Chemistry)
(Dr W Chan,School of Biomedical Engineering)
Course Objectives Chemistry is engineering at the molecular level. It provides the fundamental language for understanding how the composition, structure, and interactions of molecules govern the behaviour of cells, tissues, biomaterials, medical devices, and physiological systems. A solid foundation in chemistry enables students to connect molecular properties to biological function, material performance, transport processes, and device interface behaviour.
Course Contents & Topics This course introduces the core chemical principles required for further study in biomedical engineering.  Students learn to describe and analyse chemical systems quantitatively through stoichiometry and concentration calculations, to predict behaviour in aqueous systems through acids and bases, buffers, and chemical equilibria, and to explain why chemical processes occur and how fast they proceed through thermodynamics, kinetics, and redox chemistry.  Together, these principles provide a foundation for understanding chemical processes in aqueous environments, living systems, and biomedical materials.
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

CLO 1 explain how atomic structure, bonding, geometry, and intermolecular forces determine the properties of molecules used in biology and biomedical engineering
CLO 2 apply quantitative chemical concepts, including moles, concentration, and stoichiometry, to biomedical problems
CLO 3 analyse the behaviour of aqueous systems, including solubility, ions, acids and bases, buffers, and chemical equilibria
CLO 4 relate thermodynamics, kinetics, and redox chemistry to chemical and biochemical processes in living systems and biomedical materials
CLO 5 describe the chemical structures, properties, and functions of major biomolecules and biomaterials relevant to biomedical engineering
Pre-requisites
(and Co-requisites and
Impermissible combinations)		 None
Course to PLO Mapping
Offer in 2026 - 2027 Y        1st sem    2nd sem    Examination Dec    May     
Offer in 2027 - 2028 Y
Course Grade A+ to F
Grade Descriptors
A Demonstrate a thorough grasp of the knowledge and skills required in the chemical principles relevant to biomedical engineering, as described in the course learning outcomes. Show strong analytical, quantitative and logical thinking, and the ability to apply and integrate chemistry knowledge to explain molecular, biological, material and device related problems. Display highly effective organisation and communication skills in assessments.
B Demonstrate a good grasp of the knowledge and skills required in the chemical principles relevant to biomedical engineering, as described in the course learning outcomes. Show good analytical and quantitative abilities, with the capacity to apply chemistry knowledge to familiar and some unfamiliar biomedical engineering contexts. Display effective organisation and communication skills in assessments.
C Demonstrate an adequate grasp of the basic knowledge and skills required in the chemical principles relevant to biomedical engineering, as described in the course learning outcomes. Show some ability to carry out standard calculations and apply chemical concepts to familiar biomedical engineering examples. Display acceptable organisation and communication skills in assessments.
D Demonstrate limited grasp of the basic knowledge and skills required in the chemical principles relevant to biomedical engineering, as described in the course learning outcomes. Show limited ability to apply chemical concepts or quantitative methods to biomedical engineering problems. Display basic but inconsistent organisation and communication skills in assessments.
Fail Fail to demonstrate sufficient grasp of the basic knowledge and skills required in the chemical principles relevant to biomedical engineering, as described in the course learning outcomes. Show serious difficulty in applying chemical concepts or quantitative methods to biomedical engineering problems. Display inadequate organisation, communication or scientific accuracy in assessments.
Communication-intensive Course N
Course Type Lecture-based course
Course Teaching
& Learning Activities
Activities Details No. of Hours
Lectures 36.0
Tutorials 8.0
Reading / Self study 100.0
Assessment Methods
and Weighting
Methods Details Weighting in final
course grade (%)		 Assessment Methods
to CLO Mapping
Assignments 20.0 1,3,4,5
Examination 40.0 1,2,3,4,5
Project reports 20.0 1,4,5
Test 20.0 1,2,3,4
Required/recommended reading
and online materials		 References to specialized texts and other published materials will be made throughout the course.
Course Website NIL
Additional Course Information


CHEM1041 Foundations of chemistry (6 credits) Academic Year 2026
Offering Department Chemistry Quota 70
Course Co-ordinator Dr A T L Li, Chemistry < litla@hku.hk >
Teachers Involved (Dr A M Y Yuen,Chemistry)
(Dr A T L Li,Chemistry)
Course Objectives The course aims to provide students who do not have HKDSE Chemistry or an equivalent background but are interested in exploring Chemistry further, with an understanding of the essential fundamental principles and concepts of chemistry.
Course Contents & Topics Topic 1: Introduction to Chemistry: Atoms and the Periodic Table

Topic 2: Chemical Bonding and Structures

Topic 3: Mole concepts and Stoichiometry

Topic 4: Types of Chemical Reactions: Acid-base and Redox reactions

Topic 5: Introduction to Chemical Equilibrium

Topic 6: Introduction to Carbon Compounds
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

CLO 1 demonstrate knowledge and understanding in relation to some chemical vocabulary, terminology and conventions
CLO 2 demonstrate knowledge and understanding of chemical stoichiometry, the properties of liquids and solids, the nature of gases, phase changes, chemical bonding and structures, and the nature of chemical equilibria
CLO 3 apply the theories and concepts introduced in the course to solve problems, perform calculations, make predictions and rationalize trends
CLO 4 organize and present chemical ideas in a clear, logical and coherent way
CLO 5 demonstrate awareness and appreciation of the relevant applications of chemistry in society and in everyday life
Pre-requisites
(and Co-requisites and
Impermissible combinations)		 No pre-requisite. This is a bridging course for students without high school chemistry background but are keen to equip themselves with a foundation of chemistry. Students taking this course are expected to work hard by doing active self-reading in order to be able to cope with this course which should not be seen as an easy course (for those with no chemistry background).

Not for students with Level 3 or above in HKDSE Chemistry or having taken any level 1 Chemistry course or above or any equivalent Chemistry course
Course Status with Related Major/Minor /Professional Core 2026 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2026 Major in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2026 Minor in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2025 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2025 Major in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2025 Minor in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2024 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2024 Major in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2024 Minor in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2023 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2023 Major in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2023 Minor in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2022 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2022 Major in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2022 Minor in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
Course to PLO Mapping 2026 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) < PLO 4 >
2026 Major in Environmental Science < PLO 2 >
2025 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) < PLO 4 >
2025 Major in Environmental Science < PLO 2 >
2024 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) < PLO 4 >
2024 Major in Environmental Science < PLO 2 >
2023 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) < PLO 4 >
2023 Major in Environmental Science < PLO 2 >
2022 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) < PLO 4 >
2022 Major in Environmental Science < PLO 2 >
Offer in 2026 - 2027 Y        1st sem    Examination Dec     
Offer in 2027 - 2028 Y
Course Grade A+ to F
Grade Descriptors
A Demonstrate thorough mastery at an advanced level of extensive knowledge and skills required for attaining all the course learning outcomes. Show thorough grasp of the subject. Demonstrate strong analytical and critical abilities and logical thinking, with ability to apply knowledge to a wide range of complex, familiar and unfamiliar situations. Apply highly effective organizational and presentational skills.
B Demonstrate substantial command of a broad range of knowledge and skills required for attaining at least most of the course learning outcomes. Show substantial grasp of the subject. Demonstrate evidence of analytical and critical abilities and logical thinking, and ability to apply knowledge to familiar and some unfamiliar situations. Apply effective organizational and presentational skills.
C Demonstrate general but incomplete command of knowledge and skills required for attaining most of the course learning outcomes. Show general but incomplete grasp of the subject. Demonstrate evidence of some analytical and critical abilities and logical thinking, and ability to apply knowledge to most familiar situations. Apply moderately effective organizational and presentational skills.
D Demonstrate partial but limited command of knowledge and skills required for attaining some of the course learning outcomes. Show partial but limited grasp, with retention of some relevant information, of the subject. Demonstrate evidence of some coherent and logical thinking, but with limited analytical and critical abilities. Show limited ability to apply knowledge to solve problems. Apply limited or barely effective organizational and presentational skills.
Fail Demonstrate little or no evidence of command of knowledge and skills required for attaining the course learning outcomes. Show evidence of little or no grasp of the knowledge and understanding of the subject. Lack of analytical and critical abilities, logical and coherent thinking. Show very little or no ability to apply knowledge to solve problems. Organization and presentational skills are minimally effective or ineffective.
Communication-intensive Course N
Course Type Lecture-based course
Course Teaching
& Learning Activities
Activities Details No. of Hours
Lectures 36.0
Tutorials 12.0
Reading / Self study 100.0
Assessment Methods
and Weighting
Methods Details Weighting in final
course grade (%)		 Assessment Methods
to CLO Mapping
Assignments 30.0 1,2,3,4,5
Examination 50.0 1,2,3,4,5
Test 20.0 1,2,3,4,5
Required/recommended reading
and online materials		 (Textbook for the course) Petrucci; Herring; Madura; Bissonnette: General Chemistry - Principles and Modern Applications, latest edition, Pearson.
(Other reference books) Brown; LeMay; Bursten; Murphy; Woodward; Stoltzfus: Chemistry - The Central Science, latest edition, Pearson.
Tro: Chemistry - A Molecular Approach, latest edition, Pearson.
Robinson; McMurry; Fay: Chemistry, latest edition, Pearson.
Course Website NIL
Additional Course Information Suggested follow-up course: CHEM1042 General Chemistry I


CHEM1042 General chemistry I (6 credits) Academic Year 2026
Offering Department Chemistry Quota 450
Course Co-ordinator Dr A T L Li, Chemistry < litla@hku.hk >
Teachers Involved (Dr A T L Li,Chemistry)
Course Objectives The course aims to provide students with a solid foundation of the basic principles and concepts of chemistry. It also provides students with hands-on training of basic laboratory skills and techniques including volumetric analysis, preparation, purification and characterization of chemical substances and some basic instrumental methods. Students will be equipped with a good foundation of theoretical and practical knowledge and skills for further studies in Chemistry.
Course Contents & Topics 1. Atoms: the quantum world
Electromagnetic radiation and matter; Planck's quantum theory; the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom; the quantum mechanical model of the atom; quantum numbers, energy levels, and atomic orbitals; shapes of atomic orbitals; electron configurations; periodic trends.
2. Chemical bonding and structures
Review on covalent, ionic and metallic bond. Molecular structures (VSEPR, VB theory) and intermolecular forces.
3. Thermodynamics
Heat, work, internal energy and enthalpy; the First Law of thermodynamics; Hess's Law; introduction to entropy and spontaneity of changes.
4. Chemical kinetics
Reaction rate; factors that influence reaction rate; rate laws: differential and integrated rate laws; effects of temperature and catalysts in reaction rate; energy profile and reaction mechanisms.
5. Acid-base equilibria
Acid-base concepts; strength of acids/bases; equilibria in solutions of weak acids/bases; ionisation constants; acid-base properties; molecular structure and acid-base behaviour; buffer solutions; acid-base indicators; volumetric analysis involving acids and bases
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

CLO 1 demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of the microscopic nature of atomic structure and concepts of chemical bonding and their relationships with the bulk properties of matter
CLO 2 demonstrate knowledge and understanding in relation to thermodynamics and kinetics of reactions as well as aqueous equilibria including acid-base equilibria
CLO 3 apply the theories and concepts introduced in the course to solve problems, perform calculations, make predictions and rationalize trends
CLO 4 carry out chemical experiments with proper procedures, record experimental oberservations accurately, and interpret and evaluate the experimental data
CLO 5 organize and present chemical ideas in a clear, logical and coherent way
CLO 6 demonstrate awareness and appreciation of the relevant applications of chemistry in society and in everyday life
Pre-requisites
(and Co-requisites and
Impermissible combinations)		 Level 3 or above in HKDSE Chemistry or equivalent or a pass in CHEM1041.
Not for students having taken any level 1 Chemistry course (except for CHEM1041) or above or any equivalent Chemistry course.
Course Status with Related Major/Minor /Professional Core 2026 Major in Biochemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Major in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2026 Major in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2026 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Minor in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Minor in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2025 Major in Biochemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Major in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2025 Major in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2025 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Minor in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Minor in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2024 Major in Biochemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Major in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2024 Major in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2024 Major in Food & Nutritional Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2024 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Minor in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Minor in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2023 Major in Biochemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Major in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2023 Major in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2023 Major in Food & Nutritional Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2023 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Minor in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Minor in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2022 Major in Biochemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Major in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2022 Major in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2022 Major in Food & Nutritional Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
2022 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Minor in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Minor in Environmental Science ( Disciplinary Elective )
Course to PLO Mapping 2026 Major in Biochemistry < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2026 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) < PLO 1,2 >
2026 Major in Chemistry < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2026 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2026 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) < PLO 4 >
2026 Major in Environmental Science < PLO 1,2 >
2026 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,3,4 >
2025 Major in Biochemistry < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2025 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) < PLO 1,2 >
2025 Major in Chemistry < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2025 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2025 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) < PLO 4 >
2025 Major in Environmental Science < PLO 1,2 >
2025 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,3,4 >
2024 Major in Biochemistry < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2024 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) < PLO 1,2 >
2024 Major in Chemistry < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2024 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2024 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) < PLO 4 >
2024 Major in Environmental Science < PLO 1,2 >
2024 Major in Food & Nutritional Science < PLO 1,2,3 >
2024 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,3,4 >
2023 Major in Biochemistry < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2023 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) < PLO 1,2 >
2023 Major in Chemistry < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2023 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2023 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) < PLO 4 >
2023 Major in Environmental Science < PLO 1,2 >
2023 Major in Food & Nutritional Science < PLO 1,2,3 >
2023 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,3,4 >
2022 Major in Biochemistry < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2022 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) < PLO 1,2 >
2022 Major in Chemistry < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2022 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2022 Major in Ecology & Biodiversity (Intensive) < PLO 4 >
2022 Major in Environmental Science < PLO 1,2 >
2022 Major in Food & Nutritional Science < PLO 1,2,3 >
2022 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,3,4 >
Offer in 2026 - 2027 Y        1st sem    2nd sem    Examination Dec    May     
Offer in 2027 - 2028 Y
Course Grade A+ to F
Grade Descriptors
A Demonstrate thorough mastery at an advanced level of extensive knowledge and skills required for attaining all the course learning outcomes. Show thorough grasp of the subject. Demonstrate strong analytical and critical abilities and logical thinking, with ability to apply knowledge to a wide range of complex, familiar and unfamiliar situations. Show highly effective lab skills and techniques. Apply highly effective organizational and presentational skills.
B Demonstrate substantial command of a broad range of knowledge and skills required for attaining at least most of the course learning outcomes. Show substantial grasp of the subject. Demonstrate evidence of analytical and critical abilities and logical thinking, and ability to apply knowledge to familiar and some unfamiliar situations. Show effective lab skills and techniques. Apply effective organizational and presentational skills.
C Demonstrate general but incomplete command of knowledge and skills required for attaining most of the course learning outcomes. Show general but incomplete grasp of the subject. Demonstrate evidence of some analytical and critical abilities and logical thinking, and ability to apply knowledge to most familiar situations. Show moderately effective lab skills and techniques. Apply moderately effective organizational and presentational skills.
D Demonstrate partial but limited command of knowledge and skills required for attaining some of the course learning outcomes. Show partial but limited grasp, with retention of some relevant information, of the subject. Demonstrate evidence of some coherent and logical thinking, but with limited analytical and critical abilities. Show limited ability to apply knowledge to solve problems. Demonstrate partially effective lab skills and techniques. Apply limited or barely effective organizational and presentational skills.
Fail Demonstrate little or no evidence of command of knowledge and skills required for attaining the course learning outcomes. Show evidence of little or no grasp of the knowledge and understanding of the subject. Lack of analytical and critical abilities, logical and coherent thinking. Show very little or no ability to apply knowledge to solve problems. Demonstrate minimally effective or ineffective lab skills and techniques. Organization and presentational skills are minimally effective or ineffective.
Communication-intensive Course N
Course Type Lecture with laboratory component course
Course Teaching
& Learning Activities
Activities Details No. of Hours
Laboratory 24.0
Lectures 24.0
Tutorials 6.0
Reading / Self study 100.0
Assessment Methods
and Weighting
Methods Details Weighting in final
course grade (%)		 Assessment Methods
to CLO Mapping
Examination 50.0 1,2,3,5,6
Laboratory reports including lab-class performance & pre-lab assignments 30.0 1,2,3,4,5,6
Test (or Assignment) 20.0 1,2,3,5,6
Required/recommended reading
and online materials		 (Textbook for the course) Petrucci; Herring; Madura; Bissonnette: General Chemistry - Principles and Modern Applications, latest edition, Pearson.
(Other reference books) Brown; LeMay; Bursten; Murphy; Woodward; Stoltzfus: Chemistry - The Central Science, latest edition, Pearson.
Tro: Chemistry - A Molecular Approach, latest edition, Pearson.
Robinson; McMurry; Fay: Chemistry, latest edition, Pearson.
Course Website NIL
Additional Course Information Laboratory classes are mandatory.  Students must attend ALL lab classes, complete ALL experiments and laboratory reports to pass this course.


CHEM1043 General chemistry II (6 credits) Academic Year 2026
Offering Department Chemistry Quota 280
Course Co-ordinator Dr A T L Li, Chemistry < litla@hku.hk >
Teachers Involved (Dr A T L Li,Chemistry)
(Prof D L Phillips,Chemistry)
(Prof S K Lee,Chemistry)
Course Objectives This course is a continuation of CHEM1042 General Chemistry I.  It aims to further consolidate some of the important fundamentals of chemistry that underlie many topics and principles across the physical sciences.  The course prepares students to pursue a major in chemistry or in other aspects that require a good foundation in chemistry.
Course Contents & Topics 1. Gases
Simple gas laws; ideal gas equation; gases in chemical reactions; mixture of gases; kinetic-molecular theory of gases; diffusion and effusion; non-ideal gases.

2. Structure and Bonding: The Delocalized Approach: Molecular Orbital Theory
Bonding in homonuclear and heteronuclear diatomic molecules of first and second period of elements; bonding in some simple polyatomic molecules; bonding in metals (band theory).

3. Solutions and their Properties
Types of solutions; intermolecular forces and the solution process; solution formation and equilibrium; solubilities of gases; vapor pressures of solutions; osmotic pressure; freezing-point  depression and boiling-point elevation of nonelectrolyte solutions; solutions of electrolytes; colloidal mixtures.

4. Solubility and Complex-Ion Equilibria
Solubility product constant; relationship between solubility and Ksp; common-ion effect in solubility equilibria; limitations of the Ksp concept; precipitation; solubility and pH; equilibria involving complex ions; qualitative cation analysis.

5. Spontaneous Change
Entropy change; second law and third law of thermodynamics; Gibbs free energy change of a system; Gibbs free energy of reactions; coupled reactions

6. Electrochemistry
Electrode potentials and their measurement; standard electrode potentials; Ecell, delta G, and K; Ecell as a functions of concentrations; batteries; corrosion; electrolysis; industrial electrolysis processes.
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

CLO 1 demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the properties and behavior of gases and apply gas laws and kinetic-molecular theory to processes involving gases
CLO 2 demonstrate a knowledge and understanding in relation to solutions and their properties, solubility and complex-ion equilibria, and also electrochemistry
CLO 3 apply molecular orbital theory to explain the formation and properties of diatomic molecules of first and second period of elements and of some simple polyatomic molecules
CLO 4 demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the relationship between free energy and spontaneity of reaction
CLO 5 apply the theories and concepts introduced in the course to solve problems, perform calculations, make predictions and rationalize trends
CLO 6 organize and present chemical ideas in a clear, logical and coherent way
CLO 7 demonstrate awareness of the relevant applications of chemistry in society and in everyday life
Pre-requisites
(and Co-requisites and
Impermissible combinations)		 Pass in CHEM1042
Course Status with Related Major/Minor /Professional Core 2026 Major in Biochemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Major in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Minor in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Major in Biochemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Major in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Minor in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Major in Biochemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Major in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Minor in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Major in Biochemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Major in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Minor in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Major in Biochemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Major in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Minor in Chemistry ( Core/Compulsory )
Course to PLO Mapping 2026 Major in Biochemistry < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2026 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) < PLO 1,2 >
2026 Major in Chemistry < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2026 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2026 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) < PLO 1,3,4,5 >
2025 Major in Biochemistry < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2025 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) < PLO 1,2 >
2025 Major in Chemistry < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2025 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2025 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) < PLO 1,3,4,5 >
2024 Major in Biochemistry < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2024 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) < PLO 1,2 >
2024 Major in Chemistry < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2024 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2024 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) < PLO 1,3,4,5 >
2023 Major in Biochemistry < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2023 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) < PLO 1,2 >
2023 Major in Chemistry < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2023 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2023 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) < PLO 1,3,4,5 >
2022 Major in Biochemistry < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2022 Major in Biological Sciences (Intensive) < PLO 1,2 >
2022 Major in Chemistry < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2022 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2022 Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive) < PLO 1,3,4,5 >
Offer in 2026 - 2027 Y        1st sem    2nd sem    Examination Dec    May     
Offer in 2027 - 2028 Y
Course Grade A+ to F
Grade Descriptors
A Demonstrate thorough mastery at an advanced level of extensive knowledge and skills required for attaining all the course learning outcomes. Show thorough grasp of the subject. Demonstrate strong analytical and critical abilities and logical thinking, with ability to apply knowledge to a wide range of complex, familiar and unfamiliar situations. Apply highly effective organizational and presentational skills.
B Demonstrate substantial command of a broad range of knowledge and skills required for attaining at least most of the course learning outcomes. Show substantial grasp of the subject. Demonstrate evidence of analytical and critical abilities and logical thinking, and ability to apply knowledge to familiar and some unfamiliar situations. Apply effective organizational and presentational skills.
C Demonstrate general but incomplete command of knowledge and skills required for attaining most of the course learning outcomes. Show general but incomplete grasp of the subject. Demonstrate evidence of some analytical and critical abilities and logical thinking, and ability to apply knowledge to most familiar situations. Apply moderately effective organizational and presentational skills.
D Demonstrate partial but limited command of knowledge and skills required for attaining some of the course learning outcomes. Show partial but limited grasp, with retention of some relevant information, of the subject. Demonstrate evidence of some coherent and logical thinking, but with limited analytical and critical abilities. Show limited ability to apply knowledge to solve problems. Apply limited or barely effective organizational and presentational skills.
Fail Demonstrate little or no evidence of command of knowledge and skills required for attaining the course learning outcomes. Show evidence of little or no grasp of the knowledge and understanding of the subject. Lack of analytical and critical abilities, logical and coherent thinking. Show very little or no ability to apply knowledge to solve problems. Organization and presentational skills are minimally effective or ineffective.
Communication-intensive Course N
Course Type Lecture-based course
Course Teaching
& Learning Activities
Activities Details No. of Hours
Lectures 36.0
Tutorials 12.0
Reading / Self study 100.0
Assessment Methods
and Weighting
Methods Details Weighting in final
course grade (%)		 Assessment Methods
to CLO Mapping
Assignments 30.0 1,2,3,4,5,6,7
Examination 50.0 1,2,3,4,5,6,7
Test 20.0 1,2,3,4,5,6,7
Required/recommended reading
and online materials		 (Textbook for the course) Petrucci; Herring; Madura; Bissonnette: General Chemistry - Principles and Modern Applications, latest edition, Pearson.
(Other reference books) Brown; LeMay; Bursten; Murphy; Woodward; Stoltzfus: Chemistry - The Central Science, latest edition, Pearson.
Tro: Chemistry - A Molecular Approach, latest edition, Pearson.
Robinson; McMurry; Fay: Chemistry, latest edition, Pearson.
Course Website
Additional Course Information


CHEM1044 Mathematics in chemistry (6 credits) Academic Year 2026
Offering Department Chemistry Quota 80
Course Co-ordinator Dr A M Y Yuen, Chemistry < maiyan@hku.hk >
Teachers Involved (Dr A M Y Yuen,Chemistry)
(Prof S F Hu,Chemistry)
Course Objectives Mathematical calculations are necessary to explore important concepts in chemistry. This course aims to equip students with a basic knowledge of some of the mathematics that will be used in courses covered in the Chemistry-major curriculum to enable them to apply the mathematical skills to problems in chemistry. Students taking this course are expected to already have achieved level 2 or above in Module 1 or Module 2 of HKDSE Mathematics or equivalent, or a pass in MATH1011 University Mathematics I. As far as possible, the mathematical concepts covered in this course will be put in the context of chemical problems.
Course Contents & Topics Applying mathematical tools, such as Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Complex number, Vector, Matrix, Linear equation, Differential equation, in solving chemistry problems.
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

CLO 1 demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the essential mathematics used in chemistry
CLO 2 apply mathematical skills to solve basic problems in chemistry
CLO 3 be more capable of coping with a higher level of mathematics required in relevant courses for chemistry major, in particular, in physical chemistry courses
Pre-requisites
(and Co-requisites and
Impermissible combinations)		 Pass in CHEM1042 or already enrolled in this course; and
Level 2 or above in Module 1 or Module 2 of HKDSE Mathematics or equivalent, or
Pass in MATH1011 or SCNC1111
Course Status with Related Major/Minor /Professional Core 2026 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2025 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2024 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2023 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
2022 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Disciplinary Elective )
Course to PLO Mapping 2026 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2025 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2024 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2023 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
2022 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,4,5 >
Offer in 2026 - 2027 Y        2nd sem    Examination May     
Offer in 2027 - 2028 Y
Course Grade A+ to F
Grade Descriptors
A Demonstrate an excellent understanding of key concepts and ideas by being able to identify the appropriate theorems and their applications through correctly analysing problems, clearly and elegantly presenting correct logical reasoning and argumentation and being able to carry out computations carefully and correctly, and with some innovative approaches to solving problems.
B Demonstrate a good understanding of key concepts and ideas by being able to identify the appropriate theorems and their applications through correctly analysing problems, but with some minor inadequacies in arguments, identifying the appropriate theorems or their applications and presentation or with some minor computational errors.
C Demonstrate an acceptable understanding of key concepts and ideas by being able to correctly identify appropriate theorems, but with some inadequacies in applying the theorems through incorrectly analysing problems with poor argument and presentation or a number of minor computational errors.
D Demonstrate some understanding of key concepts and ideas by being able to correctly identify appropriate theorems, but with substantial inadequacies in applying the theorems through incorrectly analysing problems with poor argument or presentation or with substantial computational errors.
Fail Demonstrates poor and inadequate understanding by not being able to identify appropriate theorems or their applications, or not being able to complete the solution.
Communication-intensive Course N
Course Type Lecture-based course
Course Teaching
& Learning Activities
Activities Details No. of Hours
Lectures 36.0
Tutorials 12.0
Reading / Self study 100.0
Assessment Methods
and Weighting
Methods Details Weighting in final
course grade (%)		 Assessment Methods
to CLO Mapping
Assignments 30% Assignment 1 (poster presentation); 20% Assignment 2 (two short quizzes) 20.0 1,2,3
Examination 50.0 1,2,3
Test mid-term test 30.0 1,2,3
Required/recommended reading
and online materials		 Graham Doggett, Martin Cockett: Maths for Chemists, 2nd Edition, RSC
Erich Steiner: The Chemistry Maths Book, 2nd Edition, Oxford University Press
Course Website NIL
Additional Course Information


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