Advanced Chemistry Concepts and Applications 1 - CHE00031I
Module summary
Stage 1 concepts in structural, theoretical and kinetic aspects of physical chemistry are developed and applied to problems around molecular bonding and shape, energy states of molecules and the behaviour of molecules in the atmosphere.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 1 2025-26 |
Module aims
The purpose of this module is to introduce more advanced concepts in chemistry through a blend of lectures, tutorials and workshops. The subject matter explored in this module is covered at a more advanced level compared to the foundations courses delivered as part of stage 1 and serves to signal to the students how their understanding of chemistry will be expected to develop in its sophistication throughout the course.
Module learning outcomes
At the end of this module students will be able to:
- describe and discuss inorganic/physical chemistry concepts at an intermediate level, specifically on topics of bonding, vibration and energy distribution in assemblies of small molecules and their behaviour in mixtures including the atmosphere;
- integrate the principles taught in this module with the skills and strategies developed in Stage 1 Foundations of Chemistry modules;
- use principles taught in this module to interpret, critically evaluate and solve unseen problems in tutorials and workshops and to interpret and inform practical work;
- communicate their thinking on these topics, both in writing and verbally, and contribute to discussions in small group tutorials and workshops.
Module content
Module content:
- Application of Group Theory to Molecular Orbitals & Vibrations (DWB, 9 lectures, central workshop, college tutorial)
- Molecular Thermodynamics I: Molecular Theory of Gases (AML, 5 lectures, central workshop)
- Molecular Thermodynamics II: Solutions and soft matter (SS, 2 in-person lectures and 3 online lectures, college workshop)
- Quantum Mechanics (8 lectures, MEH, college tutorial)
- Fundamentals of Atmospheric Chemistry (LJC, 5 lectures, college workshop)
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Additional assessment information
Closed exam:
- Students answer one compulsory question in section A and two questions (out of three) from section B
- The Molecular Thermodynamics: Molecular Theory of Gases and Solutions and Soft Matter courses are assessed through a single combined question.
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Module feedback
- Tutorials/workshops: written feedback will be given for tutorial work within a week. Written and/or oral feedback for workshops will be given either during the sessions or within a week.
- Exams: closed exam results with per-question breakdown are shared with students via supervisors within 5 weeks. Outline answers are made available via the Chemistry VLE sites when the students receive their marks, so that they can assess their own detailed progress/achievement. The examiners’ reports for each question are made available to the students via the Chemistry VLE.
Indicative reading
Atkins, Overton, Rourke, Weller and Armstrong, “Shriver and Atkins' Inorganic Chemistry”, Oxford University Press.
Clayden, Greeves, Warren and Wothers, “Organic Chemistry”, Oxford University Press.
Atkins, de Paula, “Atkins' Physical Chemistry”, Oxford University Press.
Skoog, West, Holler and Crouch, “Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry”, Thomson/Brooks/Cole.