CHEY0001: Introductory chemistry
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Ex CHEY0008
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
or `appetize' to descriptive chemistry and to establish the need
to have access to theories which explain bonding and the periodic
table.
Content: Atomic structure, orbitals, Periodic classification,
covalent bonding, hybridization, organic functional groups and
stereochemistry, structure and reactivity of the carbon-carbon
double bond, aromatic compounds, introduction to coordination
chemistry including stereochemistry and VSEPR, chemistry of the
alkali metals and the halogens, a comparison of the left and right
of the Periodic Table.
CHEY0002: Kinetics & mechanism 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Ex CHEY0008
Aims & Learning Objectives: To introduce the concept
of reaction mechanism in the context of key reactions of organic
and inorganic chemistry. To provide a grounding in measurement
and analysis of chemical reaction rates. Students should be able
to interpret rate data from kinetic studies in the gas phase and
in solution and relate this information to reaction mechanisms.
Students should recognize the fundamental unity brought by a mechanistic
approach in preparation for future study of diverse reactions
in organic and inorganic chemistry.
Content: Kinds of organic reaction and how they occur:
polar and radical reactions; influence of solvation. Electrophilic
addition to an alkene to introduce rates and equilibria, bond
dissociation energy, energy diagrams, transition states and intermediates.
Definition of rate law, order and molecularity. Determination
of order, rate constant and half life. Temperature dependence
of reaction rates; activation energy and frequency factor. Nucleophilic
substitutions and eliminations in organic and inorganic chemistry.
Electrophilic substitution. Collision theory. Kinetic approach
to equilibrium. Activation and diffusion control. Kinetic vs.
thermodynamic control of reactions.
CHEY0003: Functional group transformations
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Ex CHEY0008
Aims & Learning Objectives: To describe the general
properties, reactions and methods of synthesis for monofunctionalized
aliphatic compounds. To explain the electronic structure and shape
of the various functional groups (FG's) and describe the origins
of reactivity of these groups. To extend the above discussion
to encompass aromatic counterparts.
To understand the special stability of aromatic compounds and
how this affects reactivity.
Content: Properties, isomerision, synthesis and reactions
of alkanes, alkenes and alkynes, Interconversion of alkanes, alkenes
and alkynes. Other monofunctionalized aliphatic compounds (properties,
synthesis reactions) including haloalkenes, alcohols, ethers,
ketones, aldehydes, acids esters. Aromatic FG's: bezene, anti-aromatics
and their properties.
CHEY0004: Equilibria in chemical systems
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Ex CHEY0008
Aims & Learning Objectives: To introduce the basic
principles governing chemical reactions and processes in terms
of thermodynamic properties and to describe some features of solids,
liquids and gases. Students should be able to interpret phase
diagrams, make predictions about the feasibility of chemical processes
and appreciate the factors which influence phase behaviour.
Content: Thermodynamics of chemical systems in terms of
free energy and equilibrium constants with examples drawn from
chemical reactions, redox and electrochemical processes. Acids
and bases. Phase behaviour of solids, liquids and gases. Intermolecular
forces in liquids and gases. Ideal and non-ideal gases and solutions.
A number of reactions will be used as case-studies to illustrate
the principles.
CHEY0005: Introduction to main group chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To describe modern ideas
about chemical bonding . To describe the basic principles of s-
and p- block chemistry so that predictions and rationalisations
of fundamental reaction and structural chemistry can be made.
Content: Chemical bonding theory, shapes of molecules.
The s-block elements, reactivity and size; solid state structures,
radius ratio rule, cell projections for common structural types;
chemistry in aqueous and non-aqueous media. Oxidation states of
the p-block elements, stability, lone pair effect, free energy
(Frost) diagrams; p-bonding, role of d-orbials in p-block chemistry;
chemistry of the halogens and noble gas and their inter-relationship;
basic organometallic chemistry of (-bonded species.
CHEY0006: Spectroscopy
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: Introduction to the principles
of molecular spectroscopy. The students will be capable of interpreting
experimental spectra and analysing their results to obtain spectroscopic
constants. Application of spectroscopic methods to solve structural
methods in organic chemistry.
Content: Introduction to electromagnetic radiation. Rotational
spectroscopy; rigid rotor model. Vibrational spectroscopy. Linear
ditomics and polyatomic molecules. Vibration-rotation spectroscopy
. Electronic spectra of conjugated compounds. IR spectra of functional
group containing compounds. Origins and applications of proton
and carbon NMR spectra. Introduction to mass spectrometry.
Natural science students must have undertaken CHEY0008 and CHEY0007
in the previous year.
CHEY0009: Basic chemistry laboratory
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites: Ex CHEY0008
Aims & Learning Objectives: Laboratory work is an essential
part of a chemistry course. This foundation course is designed
to impart essential basic techniques in practical chemistry that
will be important throughout the degree course. Interpretation
of results obtained in the light of theories and concepts developed
in other units will also be an aim. Students will be expected
to develop reporting skills and to consider rational conclusions
arising from experimental observations. The use of PC's to analyse
numerical data will be introduced.
Content: Experiments designed to illustrate basic principles
of volumetric acid-base, redox and complexometric analytical chemistry.
Titrations, Analytical calculations, Precision and accuracy in
unit operations. Basic manipulative techniques such as assembly
of glassware, crystallisation and purification of compounds. Preparation
of standard solutions and assembly of basic apparatus. Introduction
to using PC's and spreadsheets for analysing results.
CHEY0010: Inorganic chemistry laboratory 1
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites: Ex CHEY0008
Aims & Learning Objectives: To introduce students to
the basic techniques of synthetic and analytical inorganic chemistry.
To foster a good scientific style in the presentation of data
and to develop students' ability to manipulate and interpret scientific
data.
Content: Analysis by titration, gravimetry, flame photometry
and spectrophotometry; preparation of compounds selected from
Group 14 - 17 elements and their reaction chemistry.
CHEY0010: Inorganic chemistry laboratory 1
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To introduce students to
the basic techniques of synthetic and analytical inorganic chemistry.
To foster a good scientific style in the presentation of data
and to develop students' ability to manipulate and interpret scientific
data.
Content: Analysis by titration, gravimetry, flame photometry
and spectrophotometry; preparation of compounds selected from
Group 14 - 17 elements and their reaction chemistry.
CHEY0011: Organic chemistry laboratory 1
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites: Ex CHEY0008
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
to the basic techniques of experimental organic chemistry. The
student should be able to incorporate the mechanistic organic
chemistry that is presented in lectures with the appropriate laboratory
experiment.
Content: Separation and identification techniques. Reactions
of double bonds, to include dehydration and electrophilic addition.
Reactions involving the carbonyl group, to include; the aldol
reaction, synthesis of esters and amides, the reduction of a ketone
. Electrophilic aromatic substitution.
CHEY0011: Organic chemistry laboratory 1
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
to the basic techniques of experimental organic chemistry. The
student should be able to incorporate the mechanistic organic
chemistry that is presented in lectures with the appropriate laboratory
experiment.
Content: Separation and identification techniques. Reactions
of double bonds, to include dehydration and electrophilic addition.
Reactions involving the carbonyl group, to include; the aldol
reaction, synthesis of esters and amides, the reduction of a ketone
. Electrophilic aromatic substitution.
CHEY0012: Physical chemistry laboratory 1
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites: Ex CHEY0008
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide a basic training
in laboratory skills for Physical Chemistry. To relate experimental
work to the scientific theory behind the experiment and thus give
a fuller understanding of the theory. The student should be able
to use scientific apparatus with care and confidence, make observations
accurately, estimate the possible errors, produce a satisfactory
written report and, above all, to have a critical appreciation
of the purpose, significance and limitations of any experimental
study.
Content: A series of experiments based on principles introduced
during lecture units which may include: Determination of thermodynamic
properties of chemical reactions using thermochemical and electrochemical
approaches. Spectroscopic analysis of compounds to measure physical
properties. Study of the rates of chemical reactions by a number
of methods.
CHEY0012: Physical chemistry laboratory 1
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide a basic training
in laboratory skills for Physical Chemistry. To relate experimental
work to the scientific theory behind the experiment and thus give
a fuller understanding of the theory. The student should be able
to use scientific apparatus with care and confidence, make observations
accurately, estimate the possible errors, produce a satisfactory
written report and, above all, to have a critical appreciation
of the purpose, significance and limitations of any experimental
study.
Content: A series of experiments based on principles introduced
during lecture units which may include: Determination of thermodynamic
properties of chemical reactions using thermochemical and electrochemical
approaches. Spectroscopic analysis of compounds to measure physical
properties. Study of the rates of chemical reactions by a number
of methods.
CHEY0013: Characterization methods
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre CHEY0006
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
to a number of techniques for characterisation of chemical compounds
including X-ray diffraction, and the origins and applications
of NMR and ESR spectroscopy, To describe chromatographic and photometric
methods of chemical analysis. Students should understand the principles
of the techniques and be able to apply them in interpreting straightforward
example of results. Selection of particular techniques to solve
particular problems will be a feature of the unit.
Content: Overview of X-ray generation and use of filters.
Crystal classes, lattices and unit cells. Bragg's law. Uses of
powder diffraction. General principles of NMR-Magnetic properties
of nuclei, sensitivity and abundance. Spectra of I = 1/2 nuclei.
Chemical shifts and coupling constants. Problems with I > 1/2
nuclei. More advanced NMR techniques. Magnetic properties of the
electron and origin and interpretation of ESR spectra. Gas and
liquid chromatographic methods of analysis and applications. Origins
of fluorescence, phosphorescence and analytical applications.
Electroanalytical methods of chemical analysis.
CHEY0014: Synthesis of organic molecules
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide the student
with a working knowledge of important classes of organic transformations,
including mechanisms. To give an overview of retrosynthetic analysis
as a valuable method for the design of an organic molecule. To
enable the student to design syntheses of heterocyclic and alicyclic
compounds.
Content: The principles of retrosynthesis. The use of carbon
nucleophiles in retrosynthesis. Malonate ester synthesis and applications.
Umpolung reagents. Alkene synthesis, including Wittig reaction.
Oxidation reactions of alkenes and alcohols. Reduction reactions
of ketones and other carbonyl compounds. Protecting groups and
strategy in organic synthesis. The synthesis of ring systems including
discussion of pericyclic reactions and stereoelectronic effects.
Synthesis of large rings, spirocyclic and bicyclic compounds.
The chemistry of alicyclic systems. Description and synthesis
of heterocycles. Routes to pyrroles, farron, thiphene, pyridine
and indoles and their reactivity. Synthesis and reactivity of
pyridines, quinolines and isoquinolines. Synthesis and reactivity
of 3- and 4-membered ring heterocycles.
Natural science students must have undertaken CHEY0008 and CHEY0007.
CHEY0015: Transition metal chemistry
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To develop bonding models
that can be applied to a consideration of the properties of transition
metal compounds. To present the general chemical features of d-block
elements in their normal oxidation states. To describe the basic
features of low oxidation state compounds involving (-acceptor
ligands particularly carbon monoxide, nitric oxide and dinitrogen.
To introduce the chemistry of transition metal compounds containing
metal-carbon (- and (-bonds.
Content: Review of earlier material on coordination numbers,
geometries, isomerism. Bonding theories e.g. Crystal Field Theory
and its limitations, elementary MO theory. Explanation of structural
and chemical properties of transition metal- ligand complexes.
including metal carbonyls, metal nitrosyls and dinitrogen complexes.
Organometallics - nomenclature, electron counting, hapticities.
Metal-carbon (- and (-bonding and examples of each. Applications
and uses of organometallics.
Natural science students must have undertaken CHEY0008 and CHEY0007.
CHEY0016: Interfacial chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
to the physical chemistry of interfaces of various types and to
illustrate its significance in catalysis, colloids and electrochemistry.
At the end of the module the student should be able to describe
how and why the molecular structure of an interface controls macroscopic
properties of surfaces; explain how the structure of an interface
can be probed; explain the quantitative basis of heteregeneous
catalysis; explain the reasons for the stability of colloidal
dispersions. and explain the basis of electron transfer at interfaces.
Content: Introduction to surfaces and interfaces. Molecular
origin of surface tension. Consequences of surface tension - wetting,
Laplace pressure, capillary rise. Gas-solid adsorption - Langmuir
and BET isotherms. Kinetics of catalysis. Solid-liquid adsorption.
Gibb's equation. Monolayers. Micellisation. Colloid stability.
Interfacial catalysed reactions. Electrode reactions. Electron
transfer at interfaces. Surface spectroscopy. Phase equilibrium
at interfaces.
Natural science students must have undertaken CHEY0008 and CHEY0007.
CHEY0017: Kinetics & mechanism 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To summarize the main factors
which determine the mechanism of a reaction and how these affect
the reaction rate. To illustrate some experimental methods for
studying reaction rates and elucidating reaction mechanisms with
reference to examples from organic and inorganic chemistry. To
introduce the chemistry of some important reactive intermediates.
Content: Evidence for mechanisms and intermediates; principles
for acceptability;. Solvent and substituent effects on equilibria.
Rates for reactions of various kinetic orders, and kinetic treatment
of more complex mechanisms. Theoretical treatments of reaction
kinetics and examples of their application.. Reactions in solution.
Catalysis by acids and bases.; Nucleophilic catalysis. Stereochemistry
and mechanism. Aspects of the chemistry of carbocations, carbanions,
radicals, carbenes, nitrenes, and arynes. Experimental methods
for fast reactions: Basic photochemical processes. Applications
of photochemistry. New methods of studying reactions: molecular
beams; infra-red chemiluminescence.
Natural science students must have undertaken CHEY0008 and CHEY0007.
CHEY0018: Environmental chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
to various aspects of chemistry which have an impact on the environment.
To promote an understanding of the major chemical processes contributing
to the structure and stability of the biosphere and the effects
of human activities theron.
Content: The nature, properties and applications of radioactivity
and radioactive elements. Production and recycling of nuclear
fuels. Uses of radioactivity and its effects on the environment.
General features determining the composition of the biosphere.
Major chemical cycles and dynamic versus thermodynamic control.
Atmospheric chemistry and the roles of N, O and halogens in relation
to ozone producing cycles and organic radicals. Acid rain and
the Greenhouse effect.
Analytical chemistry of elements and compounds found in the environment
and speciation studies. Some case studies will be featured to
illustrate the principles..
CHEY0019: Structure & bonding in chemical systems
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: EX80 CW20
Requisites: Pre CHEY0007
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
to a range of tools that enable us to investigate a range of chemical
properties and relate them to molecular structure and bonding.
The student should will learn to use knowledge of molecular structure
to characterise vibrational spectra and chemical bonding and at
a more fundamental level use quantum mechanics to generate and
rationalise the structure and bonding in organic molecules.
Content: The concept of symmetry and symmetry operations
and their use to generate point groups for molecular species.
Group theory and spectroscopy. Solving the Schrodinger equation
and the calculation of energy levels. Development of the variation
method applied to diatomics and hydrocarbons. Calculation of electronic
and bonding energies, the relationship between molecular orbitals,
electron density and reactivity. Extensions to perocyclic reactions.
Importance of frontier molecular orbitals (FMO) to cycloaddition
reactions, endo selectivity of Diels-Alder reaction and FMO analysis
of sigmatropic rearrangements. Stereochemical considerations in
complex molecules.
Natural science students must have undertaken CHEY0008 & CHEY0007.
CHEY0020: Inorganic chemistry laboratory 2
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To complement some of the
material presented in Year 2 units. To provide experience in synthetic
inorganic chemistry and to introduce a range of experimental techniques.
To improve familiarity with physical methods of structure elucidation.
To improve interpretative skills and report writing.
Content: Experiments designed to illustrate the important
features of metal d-block chemistry coordination chemistry, organometallics
and metal-metal bonded compounds. Information will be obtained
from physical methods e.g. vibrational spectroscopy, NMR, visible
and ultraviolet spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, mass spectrometry,
thermal analysis. Interpretation of spectroscopic and other experimental
data. Experiments illustrating specific techniques e.g. column
chromatography, photochemistry will also be performed.
CHEY0021: Organic chemistry laboratory 2
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To extend the skills and
techniques used in practical organic chemistry. To complement
some of the lecture material presented in other Year 2 units.
To provide experience in synthetic organic chemistry and, in particular,
spectroscopic interpretation of structural features of compounds.
Content: Experiments designed to illustrate the wide diversity
of organic chemistry ranging from physical principles to organic
synthesis and through to biological and natural product chemistry.
Spectrosopic data will be collected in order to deduce spacial,
structural and chemical features of synthesised molecules.
CHEY0022: Physical chemistry laboratory 2
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To build on existing physical
chemistry techniques and reinforce lecture material by introducing
advanced experimental and techniques. Topics will be selected
from appropriate lecture units and experiments used to demonstrate
their significance. Students will become very well grounded in
PC analysis of data sets, experimental design and safe working
with modern physical chemistry apparatus.
Content: 6 self-contained practical experiments requiring
computer based analysis of results and input from the student
into the way the experiment is performed. Experiments likely to
be included involve surface analysis, colloid science, polymer
viscosities, vibrational spectroscopy, phase diagrams and gas-chromatography
CHEY0023: Computational chemistry laboratory
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 2
Assessment: PR100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: Practical introduction
to the use of computational packages for molecular modelling and
database searching as tools for the solution of chemical problems.
Content: Molecular mechanics, energy minimization, geometry
optimization. Molecular vibrations and molecular dynamics. Molecular
orbital calculations, properties, transition states, spectroscopy.
Databases for chemical structures and chemical synthesis design.
CHEY0026: Organic chemistry
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0013, Pre CHEY0014, Pre CHEY0015
Aims & Learning Objectives: To revise the basic principles
of organic chemistry taught in previous units and to consider
two areas of advanced organic chemistry in detail: New synthetic
methodologies and Other elements in organic chemistry
To introduce the idea that organic chemistry extends to atoms
other than carbon. To reflect the importance of transition metal
catalysed reactions to modern organic synthesis. To describe some
important organic transformations based on the chemistry of main
group elements. Students should be able to demonstrate an understanding
of how these strategies are employed to overcome synthetic problems.
To provide a revision of retrosynthetic analysis and to build
up an understanding of selectivity in organic synthesis. Students
should develop a familiarity with fundamental synthetic strategies.
To provide an overview of the use of the Aldol and Diels Alder
reactions in complex organic synthesis.
Content: Transition metal organometallics. Catalytic coupling
reactions. Carbonylation reactions. Catalysed reactions involving
alkenes. Hydrocarbonylation. Metal carbenes in catalysis. Allyl
and arene complexes in organic synthesis. General aspects of organosilicon
chemistry. Silicon protecting groups. Silyl enol ethers. Synthesis
and reactivity of allyl silanes and boranes. Sulphur chemistry,
oxidation levels and ease of deprotonation. Swern reaction. Sulphurylides.
Methods of alkene formation
Revision of retrosynthetic analysis (synthons, disconnections
and real reagents). Regiocontrol and stereocontrol in the formation
of enolates and in the reactions which they undergo. A discussion
of the aldol reaction (E/Z enolates, enantioselectivity and diastereoselectivity.
Zimmerman Traxler transition states). The factors which affect
regioselectivity in addition reactions. Oxidation reactions of
alkenes and alcohols and issues of chemoselectivity. Reduction
reaction. Selectivity of Diels Alder reactions in synthesis. Other
electrocyclic reactions and applications to the control of stereochemistry.
Synthetic strategies will be discussed in the synthesis of selected
target molecules.
CHEY0027: Chemistry topics
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0013, Pre CHEY0016, Pre CHEY0017
Aims & Learning Objectives: This core course will comprise
three a detailed discussion of three distinct topics.
Polymer Chemistry: To provide an introduction to the synthesis,
characterisation and applications of polymeric materials. Students
should be able to demonstrate an understanding of how polymer
structure can be influenced by the methods of synthesis and how
this affects material properties.
Physical Organic Chemistry: To extend the study of physical aspects
of organic chemistry initiated in previous units. To provide a
working knowledge of experimental tools for investigation of reaction
mechanisms and transition-state structure, through application
of rate-equilibrium relationships and isotope effects.
Structural Methods in Inorganic Chemistry: To introduce the technique
of single crystal X-ray crystallography as a tool for molecular
structure determination. To provide an understanding of the physical
basis, limitations and information available from NMR, NQR and
Mossbaurer Spectroscopics. Students should understand simple space
group assignments and the steps involved in solving a single crystal
structure. and be able to interpret a wide range of spectra.
Content: Polymer chemistry: Classification and types of
polymers. Synthesis of polymers with examples taken from several
different classes (addition, step-growth, ring opening, organometallic)
with the emphasis on how physicochemical considerations influence
the polymer structure. Characterisation of polymers (molecular
weight and chain length, spectroscopy, thermal methods). Structure
and morphology of polymers and how this influences properties.
Polymer solutions and thermodynamics of polymer mixtures. A survey
of recent applications taken from current research and industrial
topics.
Physical Organic Chemistry: Energy changes in equilibria and reactivity.
Transition states and saddle points. Activation parameters. Analysis
of reaction coordinates. Principle of Least Nuclear Motion. Hammond
Postulate. More OFerrall - Jencks diagrams. Rate - equilibrium
correlations. Hammett equation as an example of a linear free-energy
relationship. Significance of s and r for reactivity and mechanism.
Complex Hammett plots : change in mechanism vs change in rate-determining
step. Equilibrium and kinetic isotope effects. Primary and secondary
effects and their significance. Heavy-atom effects.
Structural Methods in Inorganic Chemistry: Brief introduction
to crystallography. Crystal classes and lattices. Unit cells.
Periodicity in lattices and space group diagrams. Photographic
techniques for single crystals. Data collection procedures and
collecting data. Low temperature data. Neutron and electron diffraction.
Nuclear spins and abundances. Spectra at molecules with a dilute
spin nucleus. Variable temperature NMR. Solid state NMR spectroscopy.
Quadrupolar nuclei, relaxation and linewidths. Origin of NQR spectra.
Mossbauer spectroscopy - origins and problems. Isomer shift and
quadupole splitting.
CHEY0028: Inorganic chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0013, Pre CHEY0015, Pre CHEY0019
Aims & Learning Objectives: To revise the basic principles
of inorganic chemistry taught in previous units and to consider
two areas of advanced inorganic chemistry in detail: Inorganic
reaction mechanisms and Chemistry of p-block elements.
To outline areas of current interest in p-block chemistry, highlighting
the industrial application of p-block compounds in the electronics
industry. The unit will also reinforce the use of spectroscopic
methods in structural analysis. To give an understanding the mechanisms
of reactions at main group and transition metal centres - a key
component in designing synthetic methods, developing industrial
catalysts and investigating metalloenzymes.
Content: Synthetic and structural trends in the organometallic
compounds of the common oxidation states; low oxidation state
chemistry; multiple bonding, aromoticity in main group chemistry;
MOCVD and the microelectronics industry. Mechanistic detail on
examples of substitution reactions, electron transfer and ligand-based
reactions.
CHEY0029: Physical chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0016, Pre CHEY0017
Aims & Learning Objectives: To revise the basic principles
of physical chemistry taught in previous units and to consider
two areas of advanced physical chemistry in detail: Statistical
Thermodynamics and Spectroscopy/photochemistry. To show the relationship
between the study of bulk properties and the study of individual
molecules using theory and spectroscopy. To give an overview of
the extensions required to study reaction kinetics and to treat
solids. The student should understand how to use the numerical
tools for calculating thermodynamic properties from spectroscopy
and be able to assess the reliability of this approach under different
conditions. To illustrate the main physical processes associated
with the formation and decay of electronically excited states
and to illustrate up-to-date views of the instrumentation involved
in modern photochemistry. Students should gain a fundamental understanding
of a range of photophysical and photochemical processes.
Content: Description of energy partition, the Boltzmann
Distribution Law. and quantum statistics. Derivation of partition
functions, their use to calculate properties and comparison with
experimental techniques. Evaluation of equilibrium and rate constants.
Statistical thermodynamics of solids. Introduction to lattice
dynamics, definitions of phonons and phonon dispersion curves.
Comparison of real materials with Debye and Einstein models. Absorption
and emission of light. Jablonskii scheme. Excited state kinetics
and quenching. Experimental methods. Properties and reactions
of excited states. Examples of photochemical processes including
photosynthesis, photography, solar energy conversion and atmospheric
photochemistry.
CHEY0030: Advances in coordination chemistry
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0015
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
to more advanced aspects of and recent developments in coordination
chemistry. Students should be able to demonstrate an understanding
of why the coordination chemistry of the 2nd and 3rd row transition
elements continues to attract considerable and widespread research
attention.
Content: Introduction and revision of basic principles.
Coordination compounds in medicine (platinum anti-tumour compounds,
gold drugs and technection chemistry). Dihydrogen and other (-bonded
complexes. Dinitrogen as a ligand and model for nitrogen fixation
Nitrosyls and sulphur dioxide compounds. Self assembly and recognition
processes in coordination chemistry. Mechanistic effects in Gold
chemistry. Cluster chemistry
CHEY0031: Organometallics
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0015
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide a description
of recent modern developments in organo transition metal chemistry
and to use this unit to highlight fundamental principles.
Content: Ziegler-Natta polymerisation of alkenes; the development
the so-called Kaminsky catalysts, alkene metathesis; the co-polymerisation
of carbon monoxide and alkenes as a route to biodegradable polymers.
CHEY0032: Complex fluids
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0016
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
to the physical properties of complex condensed phases which show
an intermediate degree of order. To describe how the molecular
structure of these phases determines their macroscopic properties.
At the end of the unit the student should be able to: Describe
the molecular basis for liquid crystalline phase behaviour. and
spectroscopic and scattering methods which may be used to probe
the structure of matter and explain why the work. Describe the
reasons for self-assembly in amphiphilic molecules and rationalise
the consequent structures formed. including the phase behaviour
observed in colloidal suspensions. To outline the basis for the
technological applications of complex fluids.
Content: Definitions of Complex fluids. Liquid crystal
structures - nematic, columnar and smectic phases. Scattering
techniques. Optical properties of LC phases. Theories of LC phase
formation. Self assembly. Spheres, rods and lamellar structures.
Probing structure by neutron scattering, NMR, Microemulsions.
Phase behaviour in colloidal suspension.
CHEY0033: Electrochemistry
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0016
Aims & Learning Objectives: This course provides an
introduction to kinetic electrochemistry. Students will be able
to demonstrate an understanding of how electrode kinetics and
mass transport phenomenon influence experimental electrochemical
measurements. The course will provide a general overview of the
applications of electrochemistry in the 'real' world.
Content: Introduction to electrode kinetics. Models of
electron transfer. Theory. How voltage influences the rate constant
for electronics reactions. Mass transport; convertion, diffusion
and migration. Experimental techniques: voltammetry-cyclic and
potential step measurements. Hydrodynamic systems - the rotating
disc and dropping mercury electrodes. Microelectrodies. Devices
for the investigation of rapid chemical reactions. The structure
of the electrode/solution interface: the electrical double layer.
Spectroelectrochemistry, infra red, UV/VIS and ESR.
CHEY0034: Bioinorganic chemistry
Semester 1
Credits: 3
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
to the principles and relevance of inorganic compounds in biological
systems. Selected areas will be described including the new field
of solid-state biomineralisation, using a range of examples.
Content: Oxygen binding proteins and haemoglobin. Ferridoxins
and metalloenzymes. Biomineralisation and crystal growth processes.
Iron storage proteins.
CHEY0035: Recent developments in organic chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0014
Aims & Learning Objectives: To introduce some topics
of current research interest to students with a specialised interest
in organic chemistry. To explain the importance and history of
new developments and their significance.
Content: Introduction to and examples of asymmetric catalysis.
Asymmetric isomerisations. Catalytic asymmetric reduction of carbonyl
groups. Asymmetric oxidations - epoxidation and dehydroxylation.
Biotransformations.
Approaches to the synthesis of some natural products of current
interest because of their biological activity will be examined.
A number of molecules of current interest will be analysed with
emphasis on the synthetic problems posed by their complex structures.
CHEY0036: Biopolymers
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0016
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an overview
of biopolymer structures (protein, carbohydrate, nucleic acids)
and biopolymer biosynthesis. To understand the relationship between
proteins and DNA, how proteins are made, how DNA may be sequences
and why this should be important.
Content: Peptide chemistry and peptide sequencing and synthesis;
monosaccharide and oligosaccharide chemistry, including stereochemistry;
synthesis of disaccharides; brief resume of DNA and genes; the
genetic code and gene malfunction; chemical synthesis of DNA;
why it is important; definition of an oligonucleotide; chemical
synthesis of oligonucleotides using solid phase techniques; DNA
sequencing: definition; importance; two methods for sequencing
DNA.
CHEY0037: Medicinal chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0014
Aims & Learning Objectives: Although the subject matter
may vary from year to year and reflect the interests of individual
lecturers, the aim of this course will remain constant. It is
to use certain types of compounds, which have important medicinal
applications to illustrate the complex relationships that exist
between organic chemistry and medicine. In addition, the course
is designed to exemplify advanced methods using in the assembly
of therapeutically valuable drugs of both natural and synthetic
origins.
Content: Typically two disease areas will be selected for
discussion and the drugs currently used to combat them will be
identified. The modes of action of these agents will be surveyed
with the emphasis firmly based upon the chemical/biochemical reactions
involved. The synthesis of the drugs, including methods of stereocontrol,
will feature heavily, reflecting the fact that the unit will be
taught by organic chemists, rather than biochemists. Suitable
topics currently include anticancer drugs, analgesics, prostaglandins,
beta-lactams, and compounds useful in the control of acid secretion.
CHEY0038: An introduction to neutron & x-ray scattering
for chemists
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0013
Aims & Learning Objectives: To demonstrate the applicability
of neutron scattering in chemistry, and contrast with modern X-ray
techniques. Students will be able to understanding the advantages
of neutrons over conventional techniques, how NS spectrometers
are designed and optimised for specific experimental requirements,
how NS data analysis is undertaken and what systems are appropriate
for study.
Content: Introduction, why neutrons? properties of the
neutron and production of high fluxes. Comparison with X-ray sources,
synchrotron radiation. Neutron scattering theory, coherent and
incoherent scattering, neutron and X-ray spectrometers and experimental
design. Detection of neutrons. Small angle-scattering of X-rays
and neutrons. Neutron and X-ray reflection. Inelastic scattering
and magnetic diffraction. Analysis of time of flight data and
small angle scattering.
CHEY0039: Computational chemistry
Semester 2
Credits: 3
Level: Level 3
Assessment: EX100
Requisites: Pre CHEY0019
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide an introduction
to computational chemistry describing the range of chemical problems
accessible to these techniques and their limitations. Students
should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the relationship
between interatomic forces and chemical properties and identify
where computer simulation techniques have made an impact.
Content: Definitions of terms such as ensembles and periodic
boundaries. Description of energy minimisation methods. Introduction
to zeolite catalysts and the role of energy minimisation in understanding
their properties. Introduction to molecular dynamics and its use
in calculating thermodynamic and diffusion properties. The role
of molecular dynamics in modelling ionic diffusion and relevance
to Fast Ionic Conductors. Introduction to Monte Carlo techniques,
including applications e.g. crystal growth. Calculation of energy
using either electronic or atomistic approaches (i.e. quantum
or classical mechanics). Development of potential models for covalent
and ionic systems. Extensions of these techniques to pharmaceutical
problems.
CHEY0040: Introduction to chemical research 1
Semester 1
Credits: 12
Level: Level 3
Assessment: OT100
Requisites: Co CHEY0049
Aims & Learning Objectives: To introduce students to
an extended piece of practical research work in an academic environment
and reinforce the background skills necessary for research work.
Content: A research topic will be selected in conjunction
with a supervising member of staff and a program of experimental
work planned. In addition to the experimental aspects, appropriate
library work will be conducted. Aspects of project planning, safety,
report writing skills and oral presentations will be introduced
as appropriate.
CHEY0049: Introduction to chemical research 2
Semester 2
Credits: 12
Level: Level 3
Assessment: DS55 OR30 OT15
Requisites: Co CHEY0040
Aims & Learning Objectives: To introduce students to
an extended piece of practical research work in an academic environment
and reinforce the background skills necessary for research work.
This unit continues from the co-requisite in Semester 1.
Content: A research topic will be selected in conjunction
with a supervising member of staff and a program of experimental
work planned. In addition to the experimental aspects, appropriate
library work will be conducted. Aspects of project planning, safety,
report writing skills and oral presentations will be introduced
as appropriate.
CHEY0054: Industrial placement (BSc hons)
Academic Year
Credits: 60
Level: Level 2
Assessment: RT100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: To provide students with
an opportunity to gain a years experience of working in a chemical
company or related organisation.
Content: A research project and/or training programme will
be conducted in a company or organisation approved by the School
of Chemistry. The content will depend on the precise requirements
of the placement
CHEY0058: Study year abroad
Academic Year
Credits: 60
Level: Level 2
Assessment:
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: Please see the Director
of Studies for detailed information about the Study Year Abroad.
EDUC0001: Exploring effective learning
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: This unit is intended for
those students who wish to explore their own learning and to develop
strategies for improving it. The unit reviews learning in lectures,
tutorials, seminars etc and assessment as encountered by students
in higher education. Starting from the students own approaches
to learning it considers more effective ways based on experience
and research.
Content: The nature of learning; what is learnt (skills,
knowledge, values etc.); learning styles; learning in groups;
autonomy in learning; communication as part of the learning process;
study skills; presentation skills; time management; assessment
and being assessed.
This is the recommended unit for those wishing to do one education
unit in the year, outside their degree programme.
EDUC0002: Learning: Theory & context
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 1
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: This unit will consider
more theoretical aspects of learning. It will consider theories
of learning and their application in particular situations including
schools, colleges, universities and lifelong learning. It will
also explore the implications of new technologies for learning
and the impact of visual literacy on learning.
Content: Learning theories; information processing; experiential
learning; metacognition; reflection; language and learning; memory.
Contexts for learning: schools, further education, higher education,
distance and open learning, the workplace, lifelong learning.
It is advisable to have done EDUC0001 before this unit, but it
is not a requirement. However, Natural Science students must have
taken EDUC0001 in order to undertake this unit.
EDUC0003: Education in society
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 2
Assessment: CW100
Requisites:
Aims & Learning Objectives: This unit will consider
the role of education in society. It will be based on an assessment
of the purposes of education and of educational organisations
such as schools, colleges and universities. It will consider government
policies towards education; how these policies are formed and
what they mean in practice. Examples will be drawn from the UK
and wider.
Content: Aims and purposes of education in different societies
and through time; the politics of education; the role of state
in education policy and practice: national curricula, national
development plans, centralised and decentralised systems, the
relationship between education and culture; the hidden curriculum;
vocationalism; educational alternatives; Europeanisation and globalisation.
MATH0103: Foundation mathematics 1
Semester 1
Credits: 6
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX50 CW50
Requisites: Co MATH0104
Aims & Learning Objectives: Core 'A' level maths. The
course follows closely the essential set book: L Bostock &
S Chandler, Core Maths for A-Level, Stanley Thornes ISBN 0 7487
1779 X
Content: Numbers: Integers, Rationals, Reals. Algebra:
Straight lines, Quadratics, Functions, Binomial, Exponential Function.
Trigonometry: Ratios for general angles, Sine and Cosine Rules,
Compound angles. Calculus: Differentiation: Tangents, Normals,
Rates of Change, Max/Min.
MATH0104: Foundation mathematics 2
Semester 2
Credits: 6
Level: Level 1
Assessment: EX50 CW50
Requisites: Co MATH0103
Aims & Learning Objectives: Core 'A' level maths. The
course follows closely the essential set book: L Bostock &
S Chandler, Core Maths for A-Level, Stanley Thornes ISBN 0 7487
1779 X
Content: Integration: Areas, Volumes. Simple Standard Integrals.
Statistics: Collecting data, Mean, Median, Modes, Standard Deviation.
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Chemistry Programme Catalogue
Programme / Unit Catalogue 1997/98