Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

None

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

To introduce students to key concepts and subject content in chemistry.
To provide a sound foundation for students subsequently proceeding with degrees in chemical or biochemical sciences.
To enable students to achieve basic competence in appropriate laboratory skills.
To encourage the development of independent and self-directed study.
To enable the development of a range of transferable skills.
To instil in students an enthusiasm for science and an appreciation of ethical considerations.

Original Summary:
The module combines scientific content, theoretical principles and laboratory skills. It builds on the fundamental principles of general chemistry to develop the concepts in physical, inorganic and organic chemistry that are required for studying at higher levels.

Outline Of Syllabus

Elements, atoms and compounds
Atomic structure
Chemical bonds
Chemical reactions
Properties of solids, liquids (including solutions) and gases
Chemistry of selected elements
Chemical energetics
Chemical kinetics
Acids and bases
Chemistry of carbon compounds
Introduction to spectroscopy

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

After completing the module students should be able to:
•       Understand how atomic and molecular structure determine the chemical and physical behaviour of molecules.
•       Understand the basic principles of chemical energy.
•       Present chemical data and ideas in a clear form, use the mole concept and balance chemical equations.
•       Appreciate the need to understand how chemical reactions work and the main factors which affect them.
•       Begin a study of important bio-molecules.
•       Carry out core techniques in laboratory work in chemistry with emphasis on good laboratory practice and due regard to chemical safety.
•       Relate chemistry to other areas of study and its importance in every day life.

Intended Skill Outcomes

After completing the module students should be able to demonstrate:
•       Knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, principles and theories
•       The ability to apply such knowledge and understanding to the solution of qualitative problems.
•       An ability to recognise and analyse novel problems and plan strategies for their solution.
•       Skills in the evaluation and interpretation of scientific information and data.
•       The ability to recognise and implement good measurement science and practice.
•       Skills in presenting scientific material and arguments to a range of audiences.
•       Computational and data-processing skills, relating to scientific information and data.
•       The ability to think flexibly and laterally

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures introduce students to the required topics and give students a grounding in the principles of the subject area. Seminars and tutorials are used for more in-depth investigation and discussion of selected topics. In-course tests will allow formative feedback to be provided. Laboratory classes allow students to develop necessary practical skills and directed self-study enables them to consolidate their learning.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The unseen examinations and in-course tests assess the students’ knowledge of the subject material and the in-course tests allow formative feedback to enable the student to gauge their progress. Assessment of laboratory work and reports assesses the ability of the student to carry out experiments, collect data, carry out appropriate numerical manipulations and interpret results. Feedback following each piece of work will help learning in this area of study.

General Notes

Original Handbook text: