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 2023-24
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 have:
gained an understanding of inorganic/physical chemistry at an intermediate level, developing core chemistry concepts by application to bonding, vibration and energy distribution in assemblies of small molecules and their behaviour in mixtures including the atmosphere.
developed written and verbal communication skills in small group tutorials and workshops.
applied the principles taught in this module to solve unseen problems in small group tutorials and workshops, and applied the skills and strategies developed in Stage 1 Foundations of Chemistry modules to the study of intermediate-level concepts and applications of core chemical principles.
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 (DAW, 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, MCRC, college tutorial)
Fundamentals of Atmospheric Chemistry (LJC, 5 lectures, college workshop)
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.