Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module serves as an introduction to the field of physical chemistry, especially in terms of making scientific calculations. It has to be recognised that the nature of calculations used in support of formal physical chemistry teaching differ substantially from conventional mathematical operations. The aim of this particular module is to help students develop the necessary skills by which to undertake such calculations and to examine the consequences of their answers. The basic mathematical tools will be introduced and exemplified by way of making a range of calculations of increasing complexity. The module will link with General Chemistry so that the student sees the relevance of the calculation. At the end of the course, the student should be familiar with all aspects of scientific calculations.

To emphasise the application of mathematical and computing methods to the study of chemical problems. To introduce and develop an understanding of how to use basic software programs to aid the analysis and presentation of scientific data. To develop the student’s ability to solve scientific problems using fundamental chemical principles.

Outline Of Syllabus

"Students will be given typical data and requested to work through the problem, addressing units and likely error ranges. Graphs will be drawn and used to extract more chemical information. Emphasis will be placed on teaching how errors are carried through scientific calculations and on the limitations of extrapolation. A range of mathematical operations will be covered, including:

Basic rules of mathematical operators
Re-arranging equations
Quadratics and higher-orders
Logarithms and exponentials
Graphs, interpolation and extrapolation
Integration and differentiation
Complex numbers
Simultaneous equations
Scientific notation and units
Reciprocals, approximations, simplifications and rounding up.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of the module a student will be able to:

• Recognise key mathematical operators and understand their significance;
• Appreciate the main logical steps needed to complete a calculation;
• Undertake a range of calculations of increasing mathematical complexity;
• Know how to re-arrange mathematical expressions and make appropriate plots;
• Be able to extract chemical knowledge from scientific calculations.
• Know how to using mathematics to solve selected chemical problems

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of the module a student will be able to:

• Recognise the main types of mathematical operation;
• Manipulate scientific calculations
• Extract chemical information from such calculations
• Recognise the reliability of scientific calculations
• Use simple mathematical manipulations to solve selected chemical problems
• Take notes and read around the subject;
• Solve problems and design possible solutions to mathematical problems

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Online lectures are used to present the students with the knowledge base upon which they can develop their understanding of the subject area. On-line learning (such as practice and workshops) is used to help develop and test understanding of the knowledge base, and an understanding of the practical implications in specific situations. On-line learning is used to help develop self-evaluation and reflective learning.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The end of semester 1 exam will assess the knowledge gained throughout the course, to ensure progression into the more physical components of the chemistry course will be facilitated.

Formative assessment will allow students' to gain understanding of their progress in the module.

** Students studying from abroad may request to take their exam before the semester 1 exam period, in which case the format of the paper may differ from that shown in the MOF. These students should contact the school to discuss this **

General Notes

N/A