Chemistry 4B

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study and reasonable steps will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's

programs. Students who feel their disability may impact upon their participation are encouraged to discuss this with the subject coordinator and the Disability Liaison Unit.

Students enrolling in this subject must choose two of the following five 12-lecture modules:

Automatic Chemical Analysis

This course will outline advanced methods in the automation of chemical analysis based on the use of batch, robotic and flow analysers. There will be a particular emphasis on flow injection and sequential injection analysis, focussing on clinical, industrial and environmental applications.

Interfacial Chemistry and Sonochemistry

This module will study the production of nanometer-size colloids of metals, polymers and semiconductor particles using ultrasound, and how surface-active solutes affect the yield of the particles produced. The use of sonochemistry to decompose organic pollutants such as PCBs will also be discussed.

Advanced Physical Organic Chemistry

This module will explore the interrelationships between structure and reactivity in organic molecules. Topics such as substituent effects, linear free energy relationships and the Hammett equation will be applied to the determination of organic reaction mechanisms.

Photochemistry and Electrochemistry in Synthesis

This module will explore the application of photochemistry and electrochemistry in synthesis, focussing on reactive intermediates (e.g. radicals and ions) which are accessible only with difficulty using standard methods. Applications of these techniques in chemical synthesis will be presented.

Biological and Medicinal Chemistry

This module will explore modern drug design principles, as well as the molecular basis of therapeutic activity and methods of synthesis of various drugs. Case studies will be used to highlight the discovery and development of important drug classes.

The objectives of this subject are to provide students with an increased knowledge and understanding of advanced chemical principles, with emphasis on:

• advanced analytical techniques

• inter-relationships between structure and reactivity in organic molecules

• electro-, photo- and sono-chemical principles

• the chemistry of biological systems.

Such knowledge will facilitate insights into the structure and properties of matter and the nature of chemical and biochemical transformations.

Two 1.5-hour examinations (worth 50% each) to be scheduled after completion of lecture course.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

At the completion of this subject, students will gain skills in:

• advanced problem-solving and critical thinking skills

• an ability to evaluate the professional literature

• an understanding of the changing knowledge base

• a capacity to apply concepts developed in one area to a different context

• the ability to use conceptual models to rationalize experimental observations.