Introductory description

This module will introduce practical fundamentals of qualitative and quantitative analysis. We will consider practical aspects of sampling and calibration techniques. The laboratory sessions will include quantitative analyses using volumetry, gravimetry, UV-visible, IR, Raman as well as NMR spectroscopy and state-of-the art inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) techniques such as OES and MS.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

This module will allow students to combine their advanced analytical techniques knowledge which they should obtain throughout the taught MSc programmes with hands-on experience in the laboratory and in practical workshops.

Topics covered might include:

• Applications of qualitative/quantitative analyses
• Performance characteristics of quantitative analytical methods
• Experimental error
• Sampling and how to deal with heterogeneous samples
• Measurement of mass and volume:
• Volumetric and gravimetric methods
• Optical spectroscopies
• Infrared spectroscopy
• Elemental Analysis
• Chiro-optical spectroscopy
• Modern instrumental methods such as mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy
• Data analysis and interpretation

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• To equip students from a range of different backgrounds with essential practical skills necessary for later modules.

Indicative reading list

D.A. Skoog, D.M. West, and F.J. Holler, Crouch, Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry, 9th Edition
D.C. Harris, Quantitative Chemical Analysis, 7th edition.
Holler, Skoog, Crouch, Principles of Instrumental Analysis, 6th Edition.

Subject specific skills

Subject knowledge and understanding:

• Show an advanced understanding of the:
• principles behind classical analytical and spectroscopic methods.
• functions of various components in complex spectroscopic instrumentation.
• Discriminate between various analytical techniques, understanding the advantages, disadvantages and current applications of each.
• Demonstrate the ability to evaluate and interpret data from a variety of measurements.
• Display practical consideration for sources and treatment of experimental error.
  Key Skills
• Communicate scientific material verbally and in writing
• Demonstrate numeracy
• Independently use information technology: data-fitting software and spreadsheets
• Locate and evaluate relevant information from outside sources/literature research
• Manage time effectively
  Cognitive Skills:
• Critically analyse experimental data
• Comprehensively assess errors in data
• Test hypotheses using experimental data
• Interpret results with aid of information from literature.
  Subject-Specific/Professional Skills:
• Follow good and safe practice in the laboratory.
• Demonstrate sound laboratory and measurement skills.
• Produce clearly written and original scientific reports.
• Research and reference relevant literature.

Transferable skills

1 Critical thinking

• Recognise patterns, themes and key messages from sometimes confused and incomplete data.
• Make informed decisions on the value of a range of sources allowing an evidence based conclusion based on this analysis.
  2 Problem solving
• Use rational and logical reasoning to deduce appropriate and well-reasoned conclusions.
• Retain an open mind, optimistic of finding solutions, thinking laterally and creatively to look beyond the obvious.
• Knows how to learn from failure.
  3 Self-awareness
• Actively seek opportunities for personal development in the context of employment and life.
• Aware of personal strengths and emotional intelligence
• Reflect on learning, seeking feedback on and evaluating personal practices, strengths and opportunities for personal growth.
  4 Communication
• Communicate orally in a clear and sensitive manner which is appropriately varied according to different audiences.
• Written: Present arguments, knowledge and ideas, in a range of formats. Active listening: questioning, reflecting, summarising.
  5 Teamwork and working effectively with others
• Operate within, and contribute to, a respectful, supportive and cooperative group climate.
• Sensitive to the impact of actions on others.
  6 Information literacy (research skills)
• Critical awareness of how information is gathered, used, managed and synthesised.
• Understanding of the relative value of different sources and the importance of provenance.
• The systematic collection, analysis and evaluation of information in the investigation of a topic.
  7 Digital literacy
• Has the capabilities that enable living, learning and working in a digital society.
• Comfortable with using digital media to communicate, solve problems, manage information, collaborate, create and share content.
  11 Professionalism
• Prepared to operate autonomously.
• Aware of how to be efficient and resilient.
• Manages priorities and time.
• Self-motivated, setting and achieving goals, prioritising tasks.