Advanced Physical Chemistry 1
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| CHEM4021 | Chemistry | 4 | 10 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- CHEM4021
- School
- Chemistry
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 10
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
The module covers topics of current importance in advanced electrochemistry, including:
(1) Fundamentals of electrochemistry. Overview of electrode processes and electrode potentials. Structure of the electrode/electrolyte interface. Modern theories of electron transfer and the origin of overpotentials. Mass-transport in electrochemical cells. Analytical electrochemistry using potential-step and potential-sweep methods.
(2) Electrochemical Devices. Potentiometric and amperometric sensors. Chemically-modified electrodes. Electrocatalysis. Electrochemical energy storage and conversion in batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells.
Target Students
MSci Chemistry OR MSci Medicinal and Biological Chemistry OR MSci Chemistry and Molecular Physics OR Natural Sciences AND Level 4 students.
Classes
- One 1-hour workshop
- Two 1-hour lectures each week for 10 weeks
Assessment
- 100% Exam 1 (2-hour): Second re-assessment: If a further re-assessment is allowed by satisfying the conditions of Undergraduate Course Regulation 19, the form of the further re-assessment for this module will be 100% coursework.
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
Outline the roles and applications of electrified interfaces in the chemical sciences. Understand modern theories of electron transfer and the effects of electrochemical parameters on parameters such as rates of electrochemical reactions. Appreciate the power and applications of chemical sensors. Understand the role of molecular recognition and signal transduction in chemical sensing. Appreciate the opportunities offered by electrochemical methods in areas such as energy storage and conversion.Learning Outcomes
• Solve quantitative and algebraic problems.
• Appreciate the context and aims of scientific research.