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Practical Chemistry 2 (CHEM20019)

Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 2
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This subject allows students to develop skills in the synthesis of different classes of organic and inorganic compounds; analysis of samples with single and multiple components; determination of the kinetic and thermodynamic properties of molecules; measurement and interpretation of the spectroscopic and magnetic properties of inorganic and organic compounds. Students will have the opportunity to obtain expertise in the operation of modern analytical and spectroscopic techniques (including chromatography, atomic and molecular spectroscopy, mass spectrometry).

The subject consists of a program of experiments supported by three lectures, two tutorials and a variety of electronic online resources. The lectures and tutorials, in addition to the electronic resources, provide background theory relevant to the experiments as well as instruction on different analytical and computational techniques, spectroscopic identification of unknown compounds and cover various aspects of chemical safety, reporting of experimental data, data and error analysis and the use of chemical databases.

Intended learning outcomes

Upon completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Demonstrate skills in organic and inorganic chemical synthesis and characterisation.
  • Select appropriate techniques for specific chemical analyses.
  • Operate common chemical instrumentation and interpret the results.
  • Use a variety of physical techniques to probe thermodynamics, kinetics and spectroscopic properties of compounds.
  • Perform computer-based calculations to provide insight into chemical systems.
  • Present coherent reports that describe experiments, analyse the data and discuss the results of an investigation.
  • Search databases and the scientific literature.
  • Work safely and efficiently in a chemical laboratory.
  • Apply appropriate procedures for data and error analysis.

Generic skills

Upon completion of this subject, students should have developed the following generic skills:

  • the ability to use conceptual models to rationalise observations;
  • data recording and interpretation of scientific observations;
  • the ability to search databases and the scientific literature;
  • be able to apply procedures for data and error analysis;
  • the ability to write scientific reports;
  • an understanding and basic operations of modern analytical techniques;
  • an awareness of safe and diligent laboratory practice, including safe chemical and glassware handling, and proper instrument operation.

Last updated: 20 November 2024