6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Organisational Unit
Chief examiner(s)
Coordinator(s)
Dr Jie Zhang
(Clayton)
Associate Professor Lim Yau Yan
(Malaysia)
Unit guides
Synopsis
This unit covers the theory and instrumentation behind common physical and analytical instrumental techniques such as infra-red, Raman, UV/Vis absorption and fluorescence and atomic spectroscopies, mass spectrometry, chromatography and electroanalytical chemistry. A knowledge of the physical chemistry of gases and liquids is an important precursor to the understanding of chromatographic and electroanalytical chemistry. The application of these techniques in forensic analysis is examined using examples such as the detection of accelerants at arson scenes, drug detection in sport and identification of microsamples at crime scenes. Practical exercises will provide problem solving in physical and forensic analytical chemistry. A "Moot Court" team exercise and guest lecturers are an integral part of the subject.
Outcomes
On completion of this unit students will be able to:
- Comprehend concepts in instrumental analysis, including accuracy and precision, sensitivity, selectivity, detection limit and dynamic range;
- Describe the principles and applications of spectroscopic techniques such as infra-red, Raman, UV/Visible absorption and fluorescence, and atomic mass spectrometry;
- Demonstrate knowledge of electrochemical techniques for chemical analysis;
- Distinguish the need for, and uses of, separation techniques such as gas and liquid chromatography;
- Evaluate a range of instrumental methods and how different instruments operate;
- Compare and contrast a number of case studies illustrating the many and varied uses of chemical instrumentation for solving analytical and forensic problems;
- Use database searching and retrieval for compound identification;
- Demonstrate expertise in the manipulation of chemicals, the use of chemical analysis techniques, risk assessment and the use of modern information technologies and data analysis;
- Work in small groups and be competent in the written and oral presentation of scientific data, including in the context of a Moot-court scenario.
Assessment
Examination (2 hours): 40% (Hurdle)
Mid semester test (1 hour): 20%
Computer test/Assignments: 10%
Laboratory reports: 30% (Hurdle)
Hurdle requirement: To pass this unit a student must achieve a minimum score of 50% in the laboratory practical component and a minimum of 30% for the end-of-semester exam.
Workload requirements
- Two 1-hour lectures, one tutorial, one hour directed independent study and the equivalent of 3 hours laboratory activity per week
See also Unit timetable information