2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

CHEM3417 Advanced Lab Work for MChem

30 Credits Class Size: 60

Module manager: Dr Stephen Gorman
Email: s.a.gorman@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

Pre-requisite qualifications

Level 2 in Chemistry or equivalent

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

Students utilize research skills training gained in the previous two years of practical modules to: (i) undertake a selection of experiments in the organic, inorganic and physical chemistry laboratories appropriate to the level 3 theory modules and to the general development of good laboratory technique. (ii) acquire, develop and apply research and evaluation skills by undertaking extended open-ended experiments. Apply their knowledge and understanding in order to initiate and carry out extended open-ended experiments.

Objectives

On completion of this module students will have:
- undertaken advanced experimental work, with due attention to safety, in the chemical laboratory;
- manipulated advanced apparatus and record data for subsequent analysis;
- synthesized molecules of some structural complexity;
- competently handled air-sensitive materials and used them safely in synthetic methods;
- determined structure using spectroscopic data;
- undertaken advanced independent experimental work, with due attention to safety, and demonstrate the ability to write clear, scientific reports
- understood the aims, nature and methodology of a chemistry-related project;
- experienced the design and implementation of an investigation into a chemical problem using modern experimental techniques;
- developed an awareness of the nature of investigative chemistry, and the ability to interpret and present experimental evidence;
- developed their practical and problem solving skills.

Learning outcomes

The practical component of the core experiments incorporates the following themes, and students completing the module will be able to demonstrate:

(a) confidence in safely handling reagents/solvents, including those that are air-sensitive and/or pose significant hazards;
(b) ability to undertake advanced experimental work, with due attention to safety;
(c) ability to manipulate advanced laboratory apparatus and record data for subsequent analysis;
(d) ability to synthesize molecules of some structural complexity;
(e) determine structure using spectroscopic data;
(f) an understanding of the most common practical techniques and their proper application in the laboratory situation;
(h) a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the major areas of synthetic chemistry.
(i) a knowledge of current techniques and methodologies appropriate to synthetic chemistry, with hands on practical experience of some of these.

Syllabus

Over the course of two semesters students will undertake a selection of extended experiments in the areas of inorganic, organic and physical chemistry, appropriate to the level 3 theory modules and designed for the general development of investigative laboratory techniques.

They will communicate experiment outcomes effectively by oral and written assessment methods.

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Laboratory 27 7 189
Workshop 5 2 10
Private study hours 101
Total Contact hours 199
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 300

Private study

Students will spend both semesters working on their experimental reports, conducting independent learning in the field in private.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Continuous assessment of experimental reports provided on a one to one basis with a member of staff

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Practical Assessment of lab reports and skills plus online exercises 100
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

To pass the module, students must achieve: an average mark of 40% or higher on the experimental part conducted in the Synthetic and Analytical Chemistry laboratory, and; an average mark of 40% or above on the experimental part conducted in the Physical Chemistry laboratory, and; an overall average mark of 40% or above. Students who have completed sufficient laboratory work will be able to submit reports for the summer resit period. Students who have not completed sufficient laboratory work will be given an opportunity to do so over summer but if they have missed too much, they may need to resit the module as an internal student in the following year.

Reading List

There is no reading list for this module

Last updated: 4/29/2024

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