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.
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 proficiency in synthetic and manipulative skills in the laboratory
Interpret COSHH risk assessments for chemical procedures, including chemical disposal procedures
Record experimental methodology and results of experimental investigations in a laboratory notebook.
Apply the fundamental principles of analytical chemistry, gravimetric and titrimetric analysis, UV-Vis spectroscopy and chromatographic processes to interpret experimental outcomes
Analyse experimental data using spreadsheets to create straight-line graphs and extract scientific parameters
Communicate the results and interpretation of practical investigations through laboratory reports
