CHM2636

Instrumental techniques

Associate Professor Ray Hodges

4 points
* First semester
* 2 hours of lectures per week, 4 hours of practical work per fortnight
* Gippsland/Distance
* Pre-requisites: Both CHM1022 and PHS1616
* Prohibitions: GAS2281, CHM2171

Objectives On successful completion of this subject students will be able to describe the basic ideas and terminology of spectroscopy; demonstrate an understanding of the various ways that instruments used in UV-VIS, and atomic absorption spectroscopy are put together and the purpose of each component; calculate results, prepare samples, from an analytical point of view and discuss how the analytical signal is generated, its general properties and any likely interferences; interpret infrared and Raman spectra of relatively simple polyatomic molecules (including the nature of such molecular species from their spectra) and discuss (in an overview sense) how such spectra arise and may be experimentally obtained; describe the technique of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy from the point of view of its range of uses, underlying theoretical principles, instrument design and sample handling factors, spectral parameters, chemical and biological applications, and (in an overview sense only) its potential scope; explain the principles of mass spectrometry including aspects such as the mass spectrometer and its spectrum, methods of determining molecular masses and formulae, and some common fragmentation patterns; demonstrate competence in the use of a variety of spectroscopic instruments and sample preparation methods; display high level writing skills for laboratory practical reports.

Synopsis This subject is designed to introduce the student to the principles of modern instrumentation which are basic to studies in physical, chemical and biological sciences. It is designed around instrumental applications and relevant basic theory. After a general introduction, such spectroscopic techniques as UV/VIS, atomic absorption, vibrational and nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry are covered. The emphasis is on spectral identification, quantitative and qualitative analysis. The subject is taught in the internal mode by lectures and practical activities. For distance education students, detailed study guides are provided and a three-day vacation school applies for tutorials and practical laboratory work.

Assessment Theory component (examinations and assignments): 76%
* Practical work (6 laboratory exercises and written reports): 24% (The main emphasis of the laboratory course at this level is `hands-on experience' with a wide range of spectroscopic instruments)
* A pass in both the theory and practical components is mandatory.

Prescribed texts

Willard H and others Instrumental methods of analysis latest edn, Wadsworth

Recommended reading

Kirkup L Experimental methods: An introduction to the presentation of data Wiley, 1994
Skoog D A and others Principles of instrumental analysis 5th edn, Holt Rinehart and Winston, 1988
Williams D H and Fleming I Spectroscopic methods in organic chemistry 4th edn, McGraw-Hill, 1989