Change and Equilibrium

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Ability to utilize the basic thermodynamics and kinetics knowledge in a problem based approach
• Use a variety of advanced equipment (e.g. Emission, IR and UV Spectrometers) to conduct experiments in Physical Chemistry;
• Consolidated understanding of fundamental thermodynamics concepts (enthalpy, entropy and free energy)
• Evaluate the risks associated with an experiment and understand how to mitigate against those risks;
• Interpret data from an experiment, including applying the results to relevant theoretical models and thoroughly evaluating the associated errors;
• Thermodynamics: Understand and use thermodynamics entities (enthalpy, entropy and free energy) and basic statistical mechanics to derive details chemical equilibrium & change
• Kinetics: Ability to analyse and predict the kinetics of reaction sequences and understand the basic dynamics of reactions
• An advanced understanding of the use of mathematical concepts in support of your understanding of concepts in physical chemistry and the ability to solve problems.
• Present the results of a practical investigation in a concise and clear manner.

• The thermodynamic principles introduced in the first year are reviewed.
• Further thermodynamic relationships requiring the appropriate use of calculus are described, principally relating to the thermodynamic definitions and use of entropy.
• Statistical Thermodynamics is introduced by a detailed consideration of entropy. The Boltzmann equation for entropy is used as the starting point to develop an understanding of the effect of a given system configuration to the properties of the overall system.
• Boltzmann’s equation is developed from the point of view of maximising entropy subject to constraints; this leads to the definition of the partition function.
• The link between Boltzmann’s equation, entropy and Gibbs free energy is developed.
• The statistical perspective of equilibrium constants is explored using schematic representations of the occupancy of system levels and a specific relationship between equilibrium constant and partition function is identified.
• Revision of key kinetic concepts from year 1 (e.g. rate laws and reaction sequences for zero, first and second order reactions)
• Steady State Approach to multistep reactions, applied to chain reactions, enzyme reactions, (including derivation of Michaelis-Menten equation)
• Reaction Dynamics, Arrhenius equation, and Transition State Theory
• Solution vs Gas Phase Reactions: Diffusion
• Futher applications of mathematical concepts and methodology to include calculus and statistics.
• The laboratory component consists of a series of experiments that will provide the students with the opportunity to enhance the practical and communication skills introduced in the Year 2 course. Emphasis will be placed on awareness of health and safety procedures and a more in depth analysis and interpretation of the data acquired. The practicals themselves will introduce the students to a variety of advanced equipment (e.g. spectrometers, potentiostats) and techniques. The majority of the underlying theory will relate to previous and currently being undertaken lectures on kinetics and spectroscopy. Each experiment is also preceded by a prelaboratory exercise that involves a combination of audio visual and written resources, accessible via Blackboard that will help prepare the students for the experimental work.

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures, problem-solving tutorials with group working and tutor support

Practical chemistry: Prelaboratory e-learning; pre-lab skills lectures/ workshops; practical sessions, supporting demonstrations, group and one-to-one tuition

Practical hours includes pre-laboratory e-learning.

Preparation for scheduled sessions hours includes other independent study.

Workshop hours includes 6 Maths workshops

Feedback is provided

• In tutorials through assistance with the set work.
• In the practicals through assistance from demonstrators and members of staff on duty.
• On the reports submitted for the practical excercises.
• In-class feedback through use of interactive clicker-based questions.
• Through generic feedback following the examinations.
• Upon request by viewing of marked examination scripts.

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

Atkins & de Paula. Physical Chemistry: Thermodynamics, Structure, and Change. Oxford University Press.

Steiner. The Chemistry Maths Book. Oxford University Press.

P W Atkins and J de Paula. Elements of Physical Chemistry. Oxford University Press.

Monk and Munro. Maths for Chemistry. Oxford University Press.

M J Pilling and P W Seakins. Reaction Kinetics. Oxford University Press.

Assessment strategy

All absences from practical sessions must be validated and unexcused absences will result in failure of the module.

Repeat year externally: allowed if practical attendance criteria has been met. The practical marks are retained, the theory assessment is exam only.

Repeat year internally: note that practical may be reassessed by resubmission of reports or repeated.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External