CH1PH2-Physical Processes for Biologists
Module Provider: Chemistry
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Spring / Summer term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: Strength in A level Chemistry, or equivalent
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: CH1FC1 Fundamental Concepts in Chemistry 1 or CH1FC3 Molecular Studies for the Life Sciences or CH1PH1 Physical Processes and Molecular Organisation
Current from: 2023/4
Module Convenor: Dr Joanne Elliott
Email: j.m.elliott@reading.ac.uk
Type of module:
Summary module description:
You will develop your knowledge of the fundamental principles of Physical Chemistry by studying the core concepts of physical processes for biologists in some depth. In lectures you will learn key concepts and in workshops you will explore your understanding.
Aims:
The module aims to provide students having a biological background with an understanding of the fundamental principles of Physical Chemistry as applied to biochemistry and biological systems.
Assessable learning outcomes:
Students should achieve a sound understanding of the principles of chemical equilibria in the gas and solution phases. They should be able to quantitatively assess basic thermodynamic and kinetic data and describe basic concepts.
Additional outcomes:
Work in this module will lead to improved numeracy and descriptive abilities.
Outline content:
Chemistry in the Balance – Equilibrium (5 lectures). The importance of equilibrium in chemistry and life. Equilibrium law; dynamic nature; gaseous and solution equilibria; acid-base equilibria; heterogeneous equilibria. The effect of temperature and a variety of simple calculations. Chemical Kinetics (5 lectures) The rate equation; order, rate constant and integrated rate equations; kinetics and mechanism; Arrhenius equation; more complex reactions and enzymic catalysis. What makes Reactions go? (5 lectures) Chemistry and Energy. Forms of energy; enthalpy, Hess's Law, qualitative approach to entropy and free energy, 2nd and 3rd laws of thermodynamics. Review Lectures (3 lectures) Revision of material covered in all courses in preparation for the final exam.
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Fifteen lectures, one tutorial and 6 workshops on related material.
| Autumn | Spring | Summer | |
| Lectures | 15 | ||
| Seminars | 6 | 3 | |
| Tutorials | 1 | ||
| Guided independent study: | 75 | ||
| Total hours by term | 0 | 97 | 3 |
| Total hours for module | 100 |
| Method | Percentage |
| Written exam | 75 |
| Set exercise | 25 |
Summative assessment- Examinations:
1.5 hours.
The examination for this module will require a narrowly defined time window and is likely to be held in a dedicated exam venue.
Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
Summative coursework will contribute 25% towards the final module mark.
Formative assessment methods:
Students will receive oral feedback on their performance during the timetabled seminars and tutorial.
Penalties for late submission:
The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:
- where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
- where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.
Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall.
Reassessment arrangements:
Reassessment of the written examination is held during the University administered re-examination period in August. Failed coursework may be re-assessed by an alternative assignment before or during the August re-examination period.
Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books: • 'Chemistry' by Catherine E. Houscroft and Edwin C. Constable. ISBN-10: 0273733087, ~£70 • 'Atkins Physical Chemistry’ by Peter Atkins, Julio de Paula and James Keeler (11th edition). ISBN-10: 0198769865 , ~£60 • Chemistry Data Book, 2nd Edition in SI, by JG Stark and HG Wallace. ISBN-10: 071953951X, ~£30
2) Specialist equipment or materials: Scientific Calculator (non-programmable), £10.00
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:
Last updated: 30 March 2023
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MODULE DESCRIPTION DOES NOT FORM ANY PART OF A STUDENT'S CONTRACT.