- UCAS course code
- H801
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Course unit details:
Computational Methods for Chemical Engineering
| Unit code | CHEN10051 |
|---|---|
| Credit rating | 10 |
| Unit level | Level 1 |
| Teaching period(s) | Semester 1 |
| Available as a free choice unit? | No |
Overview
The unit will cover the following topics:
Advanced Microsoft Excel for Engineers: Data input, manipulation, and graphical representation; Advanced built-in and user-defined functions; Optimisation, root-finding and non-linear regression using Excel Solver.
Programming with MATLAB: (1) The MATLAB computing environment; Types of variables; Number formats; Mathematical operations; Built-in functions; Graphical display of data. (2) Notion of algorithm; m-files structure; Indentation; Writing programs and user-defined functions; Program debugging; Data input and output. (3) Structured programming with conditional statements and loops (for and while)
Numerical Methods with MATLAB: Roots of equations; One-dimensional and multidimensional optimisation; Systems of linear algebraic equations; Numerical integration; Ordinary differential equations.
Aims
The unit aims to:
Provide the advanced computational skills required for solving complex problems in Engineering and Science.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of CHEN10051, a student will be able to… (1) Develop algorithms to solve numerically mathematical models of physical and chemical systems in Chemical Engineering. (2) Use MS Excel and MATLAB to organise and manipulate numerical data, and represent it graphically. (3) Choose appropriate numerical methods to solve a complex mathematical problem. (4) Translate algorithms into MATLAB codes using structured programming.
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures provide fundamental aspects supporting the critical learning of the module and will be delivered as pre-recorded asynchronous short videos via our virtual learning environment.
Synchronous sessions will support the lecture material with Q&A and problem-solving sessions where you can apply the new concepts. Surgery hours are also available for drop-in support.
Feedback on problems and examples, feedback on coursework and exams, and model answers will also be provided through the virtual learning environment. A discussion board provides an opportunity to discuss topics related to the material presented in the module.
Students are expected to expand the concepts presented in the session and online by additional reading (suggested in the Online Reading List) in order to consolidate their learning process and further stimulate their interest to the module.
Study budget:
- Core Learning Material (e.g. recorded lectures, problem solving sessions): 24 hours
- Self-Guided Work (e.g. continuous assessment, extra problems, reading) : 44 hours
- Exam Style Assessment Revision and Preparation: 32 hours
Assessment methods
Assessment Types | Total Weighting |
| Final exam | 80% |
| Online test | 20% |
Feedback methods
| Assessment task | How and when feedback is provided |
| Exam
| Generic exam feedback form after exam board |
| Online test on Excel | Final mark only one week after the assessment. |
Recommended reading
Reading lists are accessible through the Blackboard system linked to the library catalogue.
Study hours
| Independent study hours | |
|---|---|
| Independent study | 44 |
Teaching staff
| Staff member | Role |
|---|---|
| Claudio Pereira da Fonte | Unit coordinator |