This is a laboratory-based module, covering aspects of laboratory safety, synthetic (inorganic and organic) chemistry, measurement, separation and analysis. The module additionally involves developing skills in informational retrieval, the interpretation of data, graphs and the treatment of errors and the presentation of scientific investigations; training is provided in the use of software packages where appropriate.
Included in the module is an introduction to applied spectroscopy, in particular the application of the mainstream techniques of mass spectrometry, IR spectroscopy and NMR spectroscopy. Key is the development of integrated problem-solving skills, i.e. using several spectroscopic techniques to determine structure, which is achieved in a workshop setting.
The module also covers the fundamentals of analytical chemistry, in particular gravimetric and titrimetric analysis (principles and practice), methods of instrumental analysis (UV-Vis spectrophotometry, flame atomic absorption spectrometry and flame emission spectrometry). An introduction to the theory as well as the practice of chromatography is given, including an overview of GC and LC techniques and their application.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate synthetic and manipulative skills in the laboratory;
Treat and interpret data, including the use of graph-plotting software;
Present scientific observations in a coherent and sound manner, and to maintain a laboratory notebook;
Demonstrate proficiency with a number of synthetic and manipulative skills;
Apply spectroscopic techniques (MS, IR and NMR) to simple molecules;
Employ an integrated problem-solving approach to structure elucidation;
Produce word-processed documents, which bring together a number of software packages (including packages used to draw chemical structures etc.);
Understand the fundamental principles of analytical chemistry;
Understand the fundamental principles of gravimetric and titrimetric analysis;
Understand the underlying principles in UV-Vis spectrophotometry, Flame absorption and flame emission spectrometry;
Appreciate the basic concepts of GC and LC processes;
Perform quantitative analyses and treat the data obtained in an appropriate manner.
Assessments: Assessment is entirely by coursework – pre-laboratory exercises, laboratory reports or online assessments, assessment of laboratory notebook, completion of workshop tasks and in-lab assessed tasks.