CHM2922 · Spectroscopy and analytical chemistry

Overview

This unit covers the theory and instrumentation behind common physical and analytical instrumental techniques such as infrared, Raman, UV/Vis absorption, fluorescence, atomic spectroscopies, mass spectrometry, chromatography and electroanalytical chemistry. A knowledge of the physical chemistry of gases and liquids is an important precursor to the understanding of chromatographic and electroanalytical chemistry. The application of these techniques in forensic analysis, environmental monitoring and industrial quality control is demonstrated using examples such as the detection of accelerant at arson scenes, drug detection in sport, identification of micro samples at crime scenes, heavy metal analysis in seawater and fluoride analysis in toothpaste. Practical exercises will provide problem solving in physical and analytical chemistry. A "Moot Court" team exercise and guest lecturers are an integral part of the subject.

Areas of study: Chemistry Medicinal chemistry

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Apply concepts in instrumental analysis, including accuracy and precision, sensitivity, selectivity, detection limit and dynamic range;
2. Describe the principles and applications of spectroscopic techniques such as infra-red, Raman, UV/Visible absorption and fluorescence, and mass spectrometry;
3. Demonstrate knowledge of electrochemical techniques for chemical analysis;
4. Distinguish the need for, and uses of, separation techniques such as gas and liquid chromatography;
5. Evaluate a range of instrumental methods and how different instruments operate;
6. Compare and contrast a number of case studies illustrating the many and varied uses of modern instrumentation for solving analytical problems;
7. Use database searching and retrieval for compound identification;
8. Demonstrate expertise in the manipulation of chemicals, the use of chemical analysis techniques, risk assessment and the use of modern information technologies and data analysis;
9. Work in small groups and be competent in the written and oral presentation of scientific data, including in the context of a Moot-court scenario.

Workload

• Two 1-hour workshops • One 1-hour tutorial (in weeks 2-12) • One hour directed independent study, • 4.5 hours undirected independent study and • the equivalent of 3.5 hours of laboratory activity (for 10 weeks) per week

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.