Inorganic Chemistry Practical III

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2013:

• 610-240 Inorganic and Bio-inorganic Chemistry A (prior to 2009)

Or both of

• 610-241 Inorganic and Bio-inorganic Chemistry B (prior to 2009)
• 610-245 Inorganic Chemistry Practical (prior to 2009)

This subject will build on the experience gained in second year practical chemistry through the synthesis and characterisation of complex molecules, the acquisition and interpretation of advanced spectroscopic and physical data and the investigation of chemical systems through computational techniques. It consists of a series of laboratory-based experiments aimed at developing skills in the synthesis, safe handling and analysis of chemical substances of a range of different classes of compounds; an understanding of modern characterisation techniques (e.g. chromatography, atomic and molecular spectroscopy); and the operation of instrumentation for the acquisition of kinetic, structural and thermodynamic data.

A component of this subject will also involve the development of skills in independent practical work through the design and implementation of experimental procedures and techniques, and data interpretation. The subject will also provide opportunities for the development of scientific writing and presentation skills, problem solving and small group collaboration, while introducing resources and software commonly used within chemical research fields (i.e. scientific databases, chemical drawing software, molecular modelling & optimisation, etc).

This subject aims to refine students’ experimental skills in the synthesis of complex molecules; the application and interpretation of advanced spectroscopic, computational and physical techniques; and the recording, interpretation and reporting of scientific observations.

Practical Component: Ongoing assessment in the form of 5 written reports on laboratory-based practical exercises, in addition to an oral based assessment (viva), all due during semester 1.

The laboratory manual for this subject.

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Environments
• Bachelor of Music

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

Upon completion of this subject, students should have developed the following generic skills:

• the ability to use conceptual models to rationalise observations;
• data recording and interpretation of scientific observations;
• ability to search databases and the scientific literature;
• ability to use advanced computational packages;
• be able to apply procedures for data and error analysis;
• ability to write scientific reports;
• an understanding and basic operations of modern techniques;
• an awareness of safe and diligent laboratory practice, including safe chemical and glassware handling, and proper instrument operation.

This subject is available for science credit to students enrolled in the BSc (pre-2008 degree), BASc or a combined BSc course.