MChem Chemistry

This section of the module provides an introduction to the physics of the atomic nucleus and nuclear processes, the significance of these processes in the synthesis of the elements, the use of nuclear energy in power generation and the potential role of nuclear energy in decarbonisation.

The unit aims to provide:

An understanding of the nature and properties of the atomic nucleus, and of the phenomena associated with radioactivity (The Atomic Nucleus)

An explanation of the origins of the elements and their abundances, including the physical mechanisms and the relationships to the life cycles of stars (Origin of the Elements)

An understanding of criticality and the principles of nuclear fission power (Nuclear Power and Criticality)

An understanding of nuclear fission in decarbonisation and Net Zero, including the roles of nuclear electricity and nuclear heat in a changing energy mix (Nuclear Energy in Net Zero)

On the successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

ILO 1 Apply their knowledge of nuclear processes and phenomena to interpret the abundance and distribution of the elements - Developed - Assessed

LO 2 Understand how nuclear processes and phenomena underpin nuclear technologies - Developed - Assessed

ILO 3 Evaluate the benefits and disbenefits of different nuclear fission technologies - Developed - Assessed

ILO 4 Analyse the utility of different nuclear fission technologies in decarbonisation - Developed - Assessed

General

The course is delivered in a way which allows students to regularly receive feedback on their work through a variety of teaching activities. This is achieved through i) a significant amount of content being delivered as worked problems and discussions in lecture, and ii) through provision of workshops. These sessions allow for provision of formative feedback through material which is designed to help guide students in their own conceptualization and approach to solving problems.

Workshops and Lecture Discussions

These offer opportunities for both facilitator and peer feedback by:

Providing opportunities for students to work with and master concepts introduced in lectures, and apply these concepts to unseen material.

Encouraging development of thinking skills (with a focus on critical thinking, analysis, evaluation and application, rather than simple reproduction of knowledge/process)

Providing opportunities for teamwork and collaboration (and the development of skills associated with this) and including time for students to reflect upon their own learning.

E-learning

This unit is supported by a set of formative assessment materials which provide an opportunity for students to evaluate their own progress during the module.

Exam technique and revision sessions

These provide an opportunity to deliver assessment-specific feedback relating to assessment criteria and understanding of question demand, as well as concerning problem solving in examinations

By course lecturers following examination (feedback and feedforward); student script viewing sessions.

Radiochemistry and Nuclear Chemistry 4th ed. Choppin, Rydberg, Liljenzin & Ekberg ISBN 978-0124058972 The Making of the Atomic Bomb Rhodes ISBN 978-1471111235 Nuclear Energy for Net Zero: A Strategy for Action https://www.dalton.manchester.ac.uk/nuclear-energy-for-net-zero/ The Road to Net Zero: Renewables and Nuclear Working Together https://www.dalton.manchester.ac.uk/ the-road-to-net-zero/