AP0414 - Elements of Physical Chemistry

What will I learn on this module?

You will learn about the physical aspects of chemistry through a study of topics in

• the gas laws,
• equilibria,
• acid/base reactions,
• electrochemistry,
• phase equilibria,
• basic reaction kinetics,
• thermodynamics.

Because much of this material requires a solid mathematical understanding it will be supported by the treatment of the essential numerical methods (units, statistics, algebra, trigonometry, geometry and calculus).

You will also extend your learning in physical chemistry through physical chemistry practical laboratory experiments. These experiments will involve spectrophotometry and conductivity/pH measurements. You will apply aspects of the physical chemistry theory and numerical methods to the handling and interpretation of data that you obtain from these experiments.

How will I learn on this module?

Lecture sessions will be devoted to explaining and expanding upon pre-lecture material and working through numerical problems. Time outside of the class will be devoted to further problem solving exercises. Laboratory work will be based upon aspects of the lecture material in physical chemistry and will apply your enhanced numeracy skills to the treatment of experimental data.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

All lecture materials will be made available on the e-learning portal. The problem solving exercises will be an integral part of the learning on this module and you will be taken through examples in class and given exercises to do during class time with guidance as well as independently outside of the teaching sessions.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
1.You will be expected to understand and apply physical chemistry principles to predict behaviour and properties through problem solving exercises and laboratory experiments.
2.Your numeracy skills will be developed to enable you to deal confidently with experimental data and understand aspects of the ‘language’ of physical chemistry at higher levels.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3.Your scientific numeracy skills will be developed as well as your knowledge of physical chemistry and its applications.
4.You will learn to work accurately and safely in the laboratory.

How will I be assessed?

Component 1: (continuous 75%) open book tests. MLO 1-3

Component 2: Laboratory reports (25%). The MLOs will be assessed specifically in relation to laboratory experiments and treatment/analysis of data obtained in this way. MLO 1-4.

Pre-requisite(s)

A-level standard chemistry (or equivalent)
Maths minimum grade 4/C at GCSE (or equivalent)

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

This module will develop your understanding of physical Chemistry through lectures, problem solving and laboratory work. This will be supported by the development of mathematical and numeracy skills. All materials will be placed on the e-Learning Portal (eLP) and assessment will comprise a mixture of lab work and open-book tests. Competence in numeracy and the ability to work accurately and safely in the lab is an attractive prospect for an employer and this module will develop your skills in this area.

Course info

UCAS Code Z044

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

School Geography and Natural Sciences

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

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The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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Accuracy of information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

How your course is delivered

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning.

Changes to your course

Most courses run as described on our website and in our marketing materials. Occasionally we may need to make changes, for example due to a change in the law or regulatory requirements, requirements of a Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body, or our quality assurance processes. Where a change is significant (in line with the Competition and Markets Authority's guidance on "substantial changes"), we will consult with affected students in advance where the change is being decided, and will explain the reason for the change and inform you at the earliest opportunity.

If we make a significant variation to your programme, you are entitled to: request a transfer to an alternative, appropriate programme; withdraw and have your tuition fees adjusted; or raise a complaint through the Student Complaints Procedure.

Optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year. Where a module you selected is withdrawn, the options above apply.

Contact time

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

Images and video

The photography and video on this page are used for illustration. They may have been taken at different times and in different parts of the University, and may show facilities, equipment, staff, students or activities that are not part of this course. They are not a guarantee of the specific facilities or equipment you will use.

The course content, entry requirements and fees sections of this page, together with the Programme Specification, set out what this course includes. Our facilities are updated over time and may change during your studies.

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