PH1S80 - Chemical Concepts for the Forensic Sciences 01 Apr 2025 - 31 Aug 2027 | Version 4
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | PH1S80 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Chemical Concepts for the Forensic Sciences | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Chemical and Environmental Sciences | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Chemical and Environmental Sciences | ||
| Module Leader: | Ryszard Babecki | ||
| Module Team: | Suzanna Kean, Natasha Galea, Mia Lambert, Hannah Minton | ||
| First Intended Intake: | MAR 2018 | Final Year of Intake: | |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 20 | Credit Level: | 4 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 0 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | 100417 - chemistry | ||
| HECOS Code Weighting: | 100 | ||
Document Version Information
| Version | 4 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 01 Apr 2025 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2027 |
Module Aims
To introduce students to fundamental concepts in physical and inorganic chemistry that support the forensic sciences
Allow students to develop problem solving and mathematical skills that will support their application of fundamental chemical concepts in the forensic sciences.
Content Summary
This module is designed to develop and support the students application of fundamental concepts in the areas of physical and inorganic chemistry that underpin topics in the forensic sciences. Students will study the following:
Equilibrium: including acid dissociation and the concept of pH.
Kinetics: the initial rates method, simple integrated equations and the Arrhenius equation.
Thermodynamics: enthalpy, entropy and Gibbs energy, with associated calculations to allow determination of changes in Enthalpy and Gibbs free energy (at standard conditions).
Atomic Structure: the composition of an atom, the wave nature of electrons, electronic configurations, the Aufbau principle, Pauli Exclusion Principle and Hund’s rule.
Various models for bonding and shapes of molecules: Simple bonding models to understand how elements combine. The shape and structures of molecules and ions (hybridisation and VSEPR)
Introduction to transition metal and coordination chemistry: an overview of various ligands and oxidation states focusing on aspects relevant to the forensic sciences.
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 18 |
| Tutorial | 18 |
| Practical classes and workshops | 10 |
| Independent Study | 78 |
| Directed Study | 56 |
| Formative Assessment - Scheduled | 2 |
| Formative Assessment - Independent | 18 |
| Total Hours Selected | 200 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Acquire and apply the basic concepts that underpin physical chemistry including determining solutions to appropriate calculations and explain the significance of answers |
| LO2 | Demonstrate a good understanding of the structure of the atom and a good understanding of how and why atoms combine. Use knowledge of the various models of bonding to predict the structure and properties of simple compounds, with particular attention to transition metal complexes. |
| LO3 | Work safely and efficiently in the laboratory and exhibit and apply knowledge of laboratory procedures. |
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Synchronous Onsite Practical Assessment | Practical Coursework (Onsite) 1 | Written proforma describing laboratory experiments/workshops | 0 | N/A | 35 | No | 40 |
| Asynchronous Assessment | Portfolio 1 | Written assignments taken at key points in the year to allow them students to reflect and develop on their progress to date | 0 | 2600 | 65 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | LO3 | |
| Practical Coursework (Onsite) 1 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Portfolio 1 | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |