CHE-20028: Physical and Inorganic Chemistry

1.To and make connections between techniques in physical chemistry and their application in inorganic chemistry utilising both theoretical and practical knowledge covered in earlier modules using several areas of inorganic chemistry as extended case studies
2. To develop data processing and analysis skills.
3. To develop experimental and analytical laboratory skills
4. To develop problem solving and scientific writing skills
5. To develop oral communication skills

Intended Learning Outcomes

Interpret nomenclature and describe methods for the synthesis of main group organometallic compounds. Apply preparative and analytical laboratory techniques to main group organometallic compounds. Rationalise the chemical reactivity and spectroscopic properties of main group organometallic compounds in terms of molecular structure and bonding. will be achieved by assessments: 1, 2, 3, 4
Communicate the results and interpretation of a practical investigation in a word processed formal laboratory report that complies with scientific writing conventions and standards, and orally in response to questions. will be achieved by assessments: 2
Describe and explain the bonding in electron deficient compounds and the application of Wade's Rules. will be achieved by assessments: 1, 4
Account for the reactivity and properties of the f-block elements and their compounds in terms of modern concepts in chemistry will be achieved by assessments: 1,3, 4
Describe and explain the theoretical principles behind spectroscopic techniques such as molecular, rotational, vibrational and electronic spectroscopy and the reasons for the observed phenomena. Analyse high resolution vibrational, rotational and electronic spectra of small linear molecules to determine selected molecular parameters. will be achieved by assessments: 1, 3, 4
Describe how the interpretation of the photoelectric effect, Compton effect and electron diffraction experiments led to the development of quantum mechanics. will be achieved by assessments: 1, 4
Explain the meaning of the various terms in the Schrodinger equation, and define the Hamiltonian operator for the particle in a box and the harmonic oscillator. Describe how the Hamiltonian for hydrogen and other low-electron atoms is obtained. will be achieved by assessments: 1, 4
Show how the Boltzmann distribution is used to describe the distribution of molecules amongst energy levels, and calculate the partition function of various atomic and molecular systems. will be achieved by assessments: 1, 4
Use Statistical Thermodynamics to calculate thermodynamic quantities including entropy, residual entropy, internal energy and Gibbs Free Energy. will be achieved by assessments: 1, 4

Study hours

23 hours lectures
36 hours laboratory and problem classes
1 hour class test
90 hours personal study

Description of Module Assessment

01: Class Test weighted 10%

In-class test
A 1-hour class test employing a variety of question styles, seen and unseen.

02: Laboratory Report weighted 20% (min pass mark of 40)

1500 word laboratory report with oral questions
Students will submit a 1500 word laboratory report based on one of the laboratory practicals and assessed for compliance with standards of writing and presentation in chemistry. Students will then answer a short series of oral questions on their report during an individual face-to-face feedback session.

03: Laboratory Practicals weighted 20% (min pass mark of 40)

Portfolio of work related to Laboratory Practicals
Portfolio of pre-laboratory exercises, COSHH risk assessments, obervations and full data analysis for the laboratory practicals.

04: Unseen Exam weighted 50% (min pass mark of 40)

Unseen exam 2 hours
The paper is split into two sections with a degree of choice in each section: Part A short answer questions, Part B long answer questions.

Version: (1.06B) Updated: 02/Oct/2013

This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.