Undergraduate - UnitCHM2762 - Design of molecules and macromolecules

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Synopsis

In this unit students will study the structure, synthesis and analysis of important industrial and biological compounds. Specific topics will include a study of the reactions of small organic compounds which forms the basis for producing larger molecules and macromolecules (including polymers and biochemicals). An important component is the experimental program which will emphasise practical applications and the use of spectroscopic and chromatographic methods of analysis.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit, students will have an understanding of the principles of Infrared and Nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry to enable them to determine the structure of organic and metal organic molecules using these methods; recognise the structures of molecules and macromolecules important in industrial and biochemical processes; understand the reactions of relevant organic groups and be able to write equations for these reactions; be able to suggest reaction pathways for the synthesis of simple organic molecules from readily available materials and be able to write reactions for these pathways; understand the mechanisms of SN1, SN2, E1 and E2 reactions in order to predict the conditions which favour these reactions; be able to write reaction pathways and suggest favourable conditions for the synthesis of macromolecules; be able to synthesise certain organic compounds in the laboratory; use analytical instruments to determine the purity and structure of synthesised products.

Assessment

Six assignments (500 words each): 20%
Practical work: 25%
Examination (3 hours): 55%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Barbie Panther

Contact hours

Three 1-hour lectures per week, 39 hours of laboratory per semester

Prerequisites

CHM1011 or CHM1022 or equivalent

Prohibitions

CHM2911