Program Overview

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Module Overview

The PHYSICAL PROCESSES IN CHEMISTRY module provides an introduction to fundamental laws governing the behavior of matter through an understanding of properties at molecular, atomic, and subatomic levels. This module builds on existing knowledge and introduces new concepts essential for understanding later Physical Chemistry concepts.

Module Details

• Module code: CHE1043
• Module provider: Chemistry and Chemical Engineering
• Module Leader: WRIGHT James (Chst Chm Eng)
• Number of Credits: 15
• ECTS Credits: 7.5
• Framework: FHEQ Level 4
• Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Student Workload

• Workshop Hours: 3
• Independent Learning Hours: 41
• Lecture Hours: 30
• Tutorial Hours: 4
• Laboratory Hours: 35
• Guided Learning: 10
• Captured Content: 27

Module Availability and Prerequisites

• Semester: 2
• Prerequisites / Co-requisites: None

Module Content

The module covers:

• Development of theories of atomic structure
• Nature of kinetics, including reaction rates and mechanisms
• Equations of state, ideal gas, and gas laws
• Thermodynamic variables, laws of thermodynamics, and chemical equilibria

Assessment Pattern

• Practical based assessments for laboratory exercises (weights: 4, 6, 6, 6, 8)
• Examination: 2-hour closed-book examination (weight: 70)

Alternative Assessment

For laboratory exercises, an alternative written assessment can be set, focusing on analyzing or explaining experimental data or detailing experimental techniques.

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate they have met the learning outcomes. This includes laboratory exercises assessing practical skills and the ability to write scientific reports, and a closed-book exam covering the full range of material discussed.

Formative Assessment and Feedback

Feedback is provided through:

• Laboratory exercises and discussions with lecturers and demonstrators
• Tutorial and workshop sessions
• In-lecture problems and self-test resources
• 1:1 feedback on exam papers and laboratory reports
• A revision session reviewing a past or model exam paper

Module Aims

• Provide an understanding of principles underlying elementary quantum theory and their experimental foundation
• Introduce basic principles of current atomic structure
• Develop further understanding of how and why reactions occur

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcome	Attributes Developed
001	Understand and apply concepts and principles of quantisation, chemical thermodynamics, the Kinetic Theory of Gases, and reaction kinetics	CKT
002	Interpret and present simple data for a range of processes and appreciate different approaches to solving practical and theoretical problems	CT
003	Successfully and accurately carry out a range of appropriate experiments, interpret the results, and draw conclusions, communicating the outcomes in written form	CPT

Attributes Developed

• C: Cognitive/analytical
• K: Subject knowledge
• T: Transferable skills
• P: Professional/Practical skills

Methods of Teaching and Learning

The learning and teaching strategy includes:

• Lectures with built-in problems and questions
• Tutorial and workshop sessions for problem-solving and feedback
• Scientific writing training sessions
• Laboratory sessions with experimental work and discussions
• Self-study material including self-tests

Programmes this Module Appears In

The module is compulsory for the following programmes:

• Chemistry BSc (Hons)
• Chemistry MChem
• Chemistry with Forensic Investigation BSc (Hons)
• Chemistry with Forensic Investigation MChem
• Medicinal Chemistry BSc (Hons)
• Medicinal Chemistry MChem A weighted aggregate mark of 40% is required to pass the module for all programmes.