This module examines the methods of chemical analysis at an introductory level. The module objectives are to give an understanding methods of analysis used in a chemical laboratory. To gain an understanding of the importance of quality control in chemical laboratories and the basis of statistics used to interpret results. The module introduces safety and the basic techniques used in the chemistry laboratory. The material covered in the lecture is reinforced in the laboratory practicals.
Section A: Methods of analysis
Introduction to Chemical equilibria, Le Chatelier’s Principle,
Oxidation/reduction reactions.Reactions, equivalence point determination in, complexometric and precipitation titrations. Use of indicators and potentiometric measurements for equivalence point determination. Use of auto-titrators. Operation of pH electrodes and functions of components in combination pH electrodes. Use of ion selective electrodes. Know how to prepare & dilute standards for analysis. Introduction to gravimetric analysis and preparation of nanoparticles. UV-Visible spectrophotometery and Beer’s Law.
Section B: Basic Laboratory Skills & Techniques
This section will cover the analytical process and the basic laboratory skills required to produce a laboratory result.
Sampling for analysis.
Selection of analytical test methods.
These skills include quantifying measurements, assuring the quality of the analytical result, weighing & volumetric measurements,
Basic statistics and use of control charts.
Methods of incorporating quality into the result.
Estimating uncertainty of measurement for an analytical result.
Laboratory Programme:
A selection of the following practicals (or an appropriate alternative) will be carried out.
1.Determination of the accuracy and precision of weighing scales and volumetricMeasuring Equipment and Control Chart set up and use.
2.Determination of iron concentration in iron tablets by Redox titration.
3.Determination of the amount of iron in a multivitamin tablet by UV-Vis spectroscopy.
4.Determination of phosphoric acid in cola by titration by pH meter
5.Gravimetric Determination on Nickel
6.Determination of phosphoric acid in Cola by UV-Visible Spectroscopy.
7 Auto-titrators
Students will learn through lectures, use of computer based learning software (including online quizzes / problem solving), tutorials (in the form of problem solving workshops), and laboratory practicals.
Self-directed learning is encouraged using tutorial questions, use of on-line resources and quizzes.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 60 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 40 |