Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit is designed to introduce the student to the principles of analysis using a number of different instrumental techniques. It is designed around instrumental applications for both atomic and molecular analysis. Introductory principles of analysis, spectroscopic techniques encompassing UV/VIS, atomic absorption and mass spectrometry, as well as chromatographic and electroanalytical techniques are covered. The main emphasis is on practical quantitative analysis using a range of different techniques.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will have gained an understanding of the key principles involved in chemical analysis; be able to explain the principles of atomic and molecular spectroscopies and be able to discuss the instrumentation commonly employed in UV/VIS, infrared and atomic spectroscopies; have gained an appreciation for the different instrumental components used in different techniques; be able to explain the principles of chromatography and its application in a variety of instrumental techniques including GC, HPLC, molecular exclusion chromatography, ion chromatography and electrophoresis; be able to suggest appropriate techniques and conditions to separate particular mixtures using these techniques; be able to explain the basis of electroanalytical methods and discuss the different classification of electroanalytical methods; appreciate the benefits offered by electroanalytical methods of analysis; have further developed their practical skills, particularly chemical analysis using analytical instrumentation, data handling and report writing; have further developed their problem solving skills and their ability to work both independently and in small groups.

Assessment

Two assignments (5000 words): 20%
Practical work: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Alison Green

Contact hours

Three 1-hour lectures per week, 3 hours of practical work each week

Off-campus attendance requirements

Off campus students will attend a four-day vacation school for tutorials and practical laboratory work.

Prerequisites

12 points of first level Chemistry

Prohibitions

CHM2736, CHM2922