- UCAS course code
- F152
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Course unit details:
Core Chemistry 3
Unit code | CHEM30211 |
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Credit rating | 10 |
Unit level | Level 3 |
Teaching period(s) | Semester 1 |
Available as a free choice unit? | No |
Overview
This course unit detail provides the framework for delivery in 21/22 and may be subject to change due to any additional Covid-19 impact.
Knowledge covering the ‘principles of modern physical chemistry’ is presented primarily in lectures. This material is reinforced in problem-based workshops, in which students are expected to participate and demonstrate their understanding of the topics.
Aims
The unit aims to: present core physical chemistry courses on statistical thermodynamics, potential energy surfaces, photochemistry and physical-organic chemistry.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students should be able to:
- explain the key steps in the derivation of the Boltzmann distribution;
- select and apply the tools of statistical thermodynamics to predict gaseous properties;
- apply the concept of potential energy surfaces to explain the basis of chemical reaction dynamics for small molecules;
- select and apply concepts in transition-state theory and the Eyring equation to predict and explain dynamical and kinetic behaviour in small molecules;
- explain the intensity of absorption of light and the probability of primary photophysical processes using simple quantum-mechanical arguments and Jablonski diagrams;
- rationalise simple photochemical processes and reactions in terms of electronic excited states;
- identify appropriate light sources for spectroscopic and photochemical measurements based on their characteristics and properties;
- explain the detailed nature of the relationship between free energy, equilibrium constant and reactivity in the context of organic chemistry;
- design experiments to measure and rationalise chemical reaction mechanisms;
- apply the principles of physical and physical-organic chemistry explain and rationalise the structure and properties of topical supramolecular materials.
Transferable skills and personal qualities
- Problem-solving skills, numeracy and mathematical skills, analytical skills
Assessment methods
Method | Weight |
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Written exam | 100% |
Feedback methods
Students will attend three problem-based workshops during the course, at which they will discuss and work on (with supervision) questions based on the taught material.
Recommended reading
- P Atkins and J de Paula, Atkins’ Physical Chemistry (10th Ed), OUP, 2014
- A. Maczek, Statistical Thermodynamics Oxford Chemistry Primers, 58, OUP, 1998
- C.E. Wayne and R.P. Wayne, Photochemistry, Oxford Chemistry Primers, 39, OUP, 1996
- J.I. Steinfeld, J.S. Francisco & W.L. Hase, Chemical Kinetics and Dynamics, Chapters 7 & 10.
- H. Maskill, The Physical Basis of Organic Chemistry OUP, 1985. ISBN 9780198551997
- E V Anslyn and D A Dougherty Modern Physical Organic Chemistry (University Science Books, 2006) ISBN 9781891389319
- J W Steed and J L Atwood Supramolecular Chemistry (Wiley, 2000) ISBN 0471987918
- P Beer, P Gale and D K Smith, Supramolecular Chemistry, OUP, 1999. ISBN 9780198504474
Study hours
Scheduled activity hours | |
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Assessment written exam | 2 |
Lectures | 24 |
Practical classes & workshops | 3 |
Independent study hours | |
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Independent study | 71 |
Teaching staff
Staff member | Role |
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Cristina Trujillo del Valle | Unit coordinator |