CHEM1111: Mathematical and Experimental Tools required in Chemistry

• A-level or equivalent in Chemistry AND Mathematics.

• Core Chemistry 1 (CHEM1078) AND Practical Chemistry 1A (CHEM1087).

• None.

• To introduce and reinforce background material in cognate disciplines that are of central importance to material taught in later chemistry modules.

• Background material and skills in mathematics, physics, statistics, biology and analytical techniques that are of central importance to material covered in other Chemistry modules.
• Solving differential equations by integration. Functions of many variables, partial differentiation, stationary points, total derivative. Complex numbers. Matrices and matrix algebra. Determinants. Eigenvectors and eigenvalues. Coordinate systems.
• Measurement of uncertainties. Statistical distributions. Propagation of uncertainties. Regression. Hypothesis testing.
• Vectors, equations of motion, force and momentum, circular motion, angular momentum, harmonic motion, anharmonicity, travelling and standing waves, charge and charge distribution, electric and magnetic fields.
• Laboratory separation, purification and analysis methods including liquid-liquid extraction, crystallisation, sublimation, distillation, a variety of chromatography techniques and aspects of quantitation.
• The structures of amino acids, nucleotides, proteins, sugars, enzymes. Cell structure.

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• Use of mathematical models to describe simple physical problems.
• Analysis of statistical data and uncertainties arising from experiments.
• Application of physical laws in classical mechanics, electrostatics, magnetism, waves and motion.
• Familiarity with common analytical techniques in chemistry.
• Knowledge of the structures and properties of biomolecules and cell organisation.

Subject-specific Skills:

• Solve chemical problems.
• Develop mathematical solutions to basic chemical problems.

Key Skills:

• Apply mathematical tools to develop and solve physical problems.

• Lectures are used to convey concepts, demonstrate what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples. When appropriate, lectures will be supported by written material, or by information and relevant links on Blackboard Learn Ultra.
• Problem classes are given to ensure that the students have grasped the concepts given in the lectures and to practice examples of problems. In preparation for the problem classes students attempt a set of defined problems. Problem classes will be formatively assessed. All work will be returned with feedback.
• Workshops are where groups of students consider problems and explore common shared difficulties. Problem exercises provide students the chance to develop their theoretical understanding and problem-solving skills. This ensures that students have understood the work and can apply it to real life situations. These are formatively assessed.
• Private study should be used by students to develop their subject-specific knowledge and self-motivation, through reading textbooks and literature. Students will be able to obtain further help in their studies by approaching their lecturers, either after lectures or at other mutually convenient times.
• A progress test is held in January for students to assess their own learning and performance to improve their examination technique. It is an opportunity for them to assimilate the work completed in the first term. Papers are returned to students with model answers so that they can learn from the experience.
• Student performance will be assessed through examinations. Examinations test students' ability to work under pressure under timed conditions, to prepare for examinations and direct their own programme of revision and learning and develop key time management skills. The examination will provide the means for students to demonstrate the acquisition of subject knowledge and the development of their problem-solving skills.

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