CH2ECNU-Extended Experimental Chemistry

Module Provider: Chemistry
Number of credits: 30 [15 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Semesters in which taught: Semester 1 / 2 module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Michael Piperakis
Email: m.m.piperakis@reading.ac.uk

Module Co-convenor: Dr Michael Piperakis
Email: m.m.piperakis@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

In the Part 1 practicals, you developed your basic experimental techniques; learnt good laboratory practice; gained an awareness of COSHH regulations; and were taught how to analyse data and work in teams. Now, in the Part 2 practical, you will have the chance to apply these experimental techniques; further your understanding of COSHH; and learn about scientific report writing and error analysis in a more independent setting. The Part 2 practical course is the perfect training for the fully independent open-ended research project that you will undertake in your final year, when imperfect “real-life” data must be used to generate new knowledge.

Module Lead:����Jun Lim��(summili@163.com)

Aims:

The module aims to arm students with further skills in practical chemistry and underline the principles described in the accompanying second year chemistry modules.

Assessable learning outcomes:

Students should be able to:

• Assess the risks involved in an experiment and carry out a COSHH risk assessment;


• Carry out advanced laboratory procedures safely and carefully in order to produce pure products;


• Make accurate observations and measurements and record them clearly; analyse experimental data and draw both qualitative and quantitative conclusions from these;


• Interpret spectra in order to deduce chemical structure.


• Measure, analyse, interpret and understand the limitations of experimental data to determine physical properties of molecules and to test simple theoretical models.


• Understand aspects of sample preparation and instrumental operation for a range of analytical instrumentation and interpret the results obtained

Write a coherent and literate account of an extended session of laboratory work in an appropriate style.

Additional outcomes:

Students will learn to work effectively in small groups, developing time management skills. Students will refine their numeracy and IT skills. Students will become familiar with using and citing the chemical literature and will develop written communication skills in preparation for completing the major project report in the final year.

Outline content:

During this course students will complete a range of experiments that span the breadth of organic, inorganic, physical and analytical chemistry. Experiments are designed to link with the lecture courses in Part 2, provide training in key practical techniques and give insight into real-life applications. Experiments will involve a combination of advance preparation, completion of COSHH/risk assessments, practical work, data analysis and presentation of findings.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The course involves regular practical sessions some of which are preceded by a short lecture/demonstration, backed up with feedback and drop-in sessions.