Module manager: Dr Sean Collins
Email: s.m.collins@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
Level 2 in Chemistry or Level 2 in Joint Honours (Science) with Chemistry or equivalent.
| CHEM3281 | Topics in Fundamental and Theoretical Chemistry (10cr) |
| CHEM3283 | Topics in Fundamental Chemistry |
(in part, CHEM3131 Chemical Bonding)
This module is not approved as a discovery module
Students will be required to study a 5-credit topic on theoretical and computational chemistry, and three other 5-credit topics in fundamental chemistry. The theoretical and computational chemistry topic (assessed via coursework) will enable students to understand and appreciate aspects of computational and theoretical chemistry, and to perform hand-on ab-initio calculations using computational tools. The examined topics will cover a range of fundamental areas in chemistry. Students will be required to answer unseen problems requiring an appropriate level of physico-chemical understanding.
The module comprises a compulsory 5-credit topic on theoretical and computational chemistry (assessed via coursework), and three compulsory topics in fundamental chemistry (which will be examined).
On completion of the coursework topic, students will be able to:
- describe the general methods used to solve the many electron Schrodinger equations for a molecule;
- apply ab-initio computational methods to solve electronic structure problems for molecules;
The examined topics will require students to demonstrate higher-level understanding of topics in fundamental chemistry, and solve unseen problems of a level appropriate to level 3.
On completion of this module, students should be able to:
1. appreciate the theoretical underpinning of computational methods and basis sets used when solving the many electron Schrödinger equation;
2. apply computational methods to solve electronic structure problems for molecules;
3. demonstrate coherent and detailed higher-level understanding of topics in fundamental chemistry;
4. solve unseen problems of a level appropriate to level 3;
5. deploy accurately standard techniques of analysis and enquiry within the appropriate sub-discipline.
Coursework Topic:
- Theoretical and computational chemistry: ab initio methods, basis set formulation, computational chemistry.
Examined topics:
- Spectroscopy: electronic spectroscopy of atoms and molecules, experimental methods, laser spectroscopy
- Chemistry of the Actinides and Lanthanides: coordination and stereochemistry, physical properties, chemical separation, radioactivity and reactor fuel technology
- Electrochemistry: Fundamentals, electrode kinds, applications, dynamic electrochemistry and the effects of current.
The optional topics may change intermittently and be augmented by alternative options.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Workshop | 11 | 1 | 11 |
| Practical (computer based) | 3 | 1 | 3 |
| Lecture | 20 | 1 | 20 |
| Independent online learning hours | 30 | ||
| Private study hours | 136 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 34 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
watching screencasts, reading, creating and revising notes, preparation for workshops and examination; hands-on computational chemistry working towards coursework assessment
Students will be provided with online quizzes/tests to test their understanding, and with problem sets for workshops/examples classes for which worked answers will be provided.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Exercise | Computer exercise | 25 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 25 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Open Book exam | 3.0 Hrs 0 Mins | 75 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 75 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
There is no reading list for this module
Last updated: 4/29/2024
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