The aim of this module is to build on the physical chemistry taken in second year of this course. The module will introduce the students to the kinetics of complex reactions, combustion chemistry and reactions in solution. In addition the module is designed to extend the student’s knowledge of thermodynamics, including methods by which thermodynamic data may be derived and applied. Also there will be an introduction to electrochemistry and its application in electroanalytical techniques. In this regard, the diagnosis of adsorption, diffusion and kinetic controlled regimes, at solid electrodes, will be introduced.
Chemical kinetics
Consecutive reactions. Steady state approximation. Classification of elementary free radical reactions. Non chain linear chain and branched chain reactions. Introduction to photochemical kinetics. Reversible reactions experimental techniques, theories of reaction rates. Determination of Arrhenius parameters. Reactions in solution. Homogeneous catalysis.
Thermodynamics
Concept of free energy. The second law of thermodynamics and applications. Gibbs and Helmholtz free energies. Van’t Hoff isochore. Introduction to the third law of thermodynamics. Determination and uses of thermodynamic data in applied situations.
Dynamic electrochemistry
Mass transport modes. Diagnosis of diffusion and adsorption limited regimes at an electrode surface. Electrode kinetics, Voltammetry: reversible, quasi reversible and irreversible systems. Electrochemistry as an analytical tool.
The module is delivered through lectures (20 h), tutorials(4h) and laboratory sessions (15h).
A selection of relevant practicals, pertaining to the theory, will be run by the students.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 40 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 60 |