The purpose of this module is to provide the learner with a basic understanding of the fundamentals of certain aspects of physical chemistry, in particular reaction kinetics and electrochemistry. The theoretical aspects are underpinned by suitably chosen experiments. These experiments not only amplify and reinforce the lecture content but also provide the learner with hands-on experience in a variety of experimental techniques.
Indicative syllabus covered in the module and / or in its discrete elements
Reaction Kinetics:
Rate of reaction. Differential and integrated rate equations. Half-life. Experimental methods. Temperature dependence of reaction rates. Catalysis. Theories of reactions.
Electrochemistry:
Electrochemical cells. Galvanic and Electrolytic cells. Cell potential. Electrochemical series. Nernst equation. Ion Selective Electrodes. Reference electrodes. Debye-Huckel theory. Activity and Concentration. Cyclic Voltammetry. Chronoamperometry and Chronocoulometry. Two and three electrode cells. Potentiostat. Glucose biosensor case study. Electric conductance. Kohlrausch law. Ostwald dilution law. Molar conductivity. Dissociation constant Ka.
The module will be delivered through lectures and tutorial material built into lectures, in addition to a number of laboratory practicals.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 50 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 50 |