Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit introduces the concepts of conservation of matter and energy, atomic theory and the principles of chemical bonding. Chemical reaction types, and the use of equations to describe these reactions, and their quantitative behaviour in both liquid and gaseous phases are introduced. The theories of acid/base and redox behaviour, and chemical equilibria are introduced. Key aspects of organic chemistry (organic compounds, nomenclature, functional groups and common reactions) will covered. The practical course introduces common techniques used in the chemical laboratory, and includes exercises that illustrate the theory component as well as laboratory OHSE issues.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Identify different chemical reaction types, and describe these with balanced chemical equations;

2. Solve numerical problems involving stoichiometry, the gas laws, acid-base and other chemical equilibria;

3. Explain the nature of various forms of matter in terms of atomic and chemical bonding theory;

4. Name organic chemical species and recognize different types of organic chemical reactions;

5. Perform basic manipulations and unit operations in the chemical laboratory;

6. Determine errors and uncertainties in experimental measurements;

7. Identify potential risks in the laboratory environment and apply realistic measures to control these.

Assessment

Examination (3 hours): 60%
Laboratory exercises: 20% Hurdle requirement: Laboratory course must be competed at PASS level)
Web based continuous assessment: 20%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Alison Funston

Contact hours

Three 1-hour lectures, three hours of laboratory/practice class activity and six hours of individual study per week

Prohibitions

VCE Chemistry Units 3/4 (or equivalent), CHM1031, CHM1731, ENG1701