FP1S006 - Introduction to Forensic Chemistry 31 Jul 2024 - 31 Aug 2028 | Version 3
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | FP1S006 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Introduction to Forensic Chemistry | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Biological and Forensic Sciences | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Biological Science | ||
| Module Leader: | Suzanna Kean | ||
| Module Team: | Natasha Galea, Hannah Seale, Peter Miedziak, Rhian Kinsella | ||
| First Intended Intake: | SEP 2024 | Final Year of Intake: | 2027 |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 20 | Credit Level: | 4 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | |||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | 100413 - analytical chemistry | 100417 - chemistry | |
| HECOS Code Weighting: | 35 | 65 | |
Document Version Information
| Version | 3 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 31 Jul 2024 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2028 |
Module Aims
To introduce students to fundamental concepts in chemistry with a specific focus on those areas that support forensic science.
Allow students to develop laboratory skills that will support the development of further analytical skills in the forensic and allied sciences.?
Content Summary
This module is designed to develop and support the students application of fundamental concepts in the areas of organic, physical and analytical chemistry that underpin topics in the forensic sciences. Students will study the following:?
Understanding the complexity of molecular structures and their determination - naming and drawing molecular structures, identifying the types and properties of structural isomers.
How do organic molecules react/interact - Intermolecular forces: types and how they govern the physical properties of substances. Fundamental reactions in organic chemistry: bond polarity, bond breakage/formation, type of reagents, types of reactions. Fundamental mechanisms in chemistry
Aspects of the physical principles and laws governing chemical reactions and processes - concentrations and dilutions, equilibrium constants, homogenous and heterogenous equilibria, pH and acid/base dissociation. Fundamental chemical kinetics (e.g., rates of reactions) and thermodynamics.
Introduction to metrology, basic chemical analysis and instrumentation including elemental analysis, UV-Vis spectroscopy, IR analysis, 1H and 13C NMR, and mass spectrometry (basic principles and interpretation of spectra) to enable multispectral analysis. Indicative chemical tests for functional groups.
Fundamental laboratory skills and technique development - Extraction techniques e.g., liquid/liquid extraction, chromatography, purification techniques, methods of analysis, relevant data analysis and calculations, volumetric analysis and spectroscopy. Safe laboratory practices.?
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture? | 18 |
| Practical Classes and Workshops | 12 |
| Independent Study? | 50 |
| Directed Study (including online independent learning)? | 104 |
| Problem/Challenge based learning | 18 |
| Total Hours Selected | 202 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Acquire and apply the basic concepts that underpin the chemistry supporting forensic chemistry and forensic analysis. |
| LO2 | Evaluate scientific data and develop practical skills to solve problems. |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asynchronous Assessment | Report 1 | Written assignment allowing demonstration of the taught module theory | 0 | 2000 | 50 | No | 40 |
| Synchronous Onsite Practical Assessment | Practical Coursework (Onsite) 1 | A guided assessment demonstrating the application of practical and problem solving skills gained over a series of practical sessions | 0 | 2000 | 50 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Report 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Practical Coursework (Onsite) 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |