CHEM3051: MATERIALS CHEMISTRY

• Core Chemistry 2 (CHEM2012) AND Introduction to Materials Chemistry (CHEM1127)

• Core Chemistry 3 (CHEM3012) OR Bioactive Chemistry 3 (CHEM3211) OR Chemical Physics 3 (CHEM3411)

• To apply chemical principles to the design and evaluation of materials with technological potential.

• Structural characterisation of solids.
• Electronic structure of solids: theory and applications.
• Inorganic functional materials: structural properties; electronic properties.
• Organic materials.

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• To use crystallographic concepts to describe and interpret crystal structures and to appreciate and use the fundamentals of diffraction theory.
• To describe the electronic structure of solids in terms of band theory and use this theory to explain the electrical properties of insulators, semiconductors and metals; explain the origin of electronic, magnetic, optical and thermal properties of solids.
• To appreciate and describe structural features of non-stoichiometric compounds, interstitial compounds, intercalates, high temperature superconductors and zeolites; relate these structures to specific chemical, electrical, optical and magnetic properties.;
• To explain the role that organic synthetic methods play in the synthesis of unconventional and novel molecules.;
• To describe the functional groups required in a molecule to obtain specific opto-electrical properties and explain the requirements for speciality polymers.

Subject-specific Skills:

• Perform simple calculations related to the structures and properties of the types of materials discussed.

Key Skills:

• Demonstrate enhanced problem-solving and confidence when interpreting experimental data, based on feedback provided verbally, in workshops and in feedback lectures.

• Lectures are used to convey concepts, demonstrate what is required to be learned and to illustrate the application of theory to practical examples. When appropriate, lectures will be supported by written on-line material, or by information and relevant links on Blackboard Learn Ultra
• Private study should be used by students to develop their subject-specific knowledge and self-motivation, through reading textbooks and literature. Students will be able to obtain further help in their studies by approaching their lecturers, either after lectures or at other mutually convenient times.
• Workshops are where groups of students consider problems and explore common shared difficulties. Problem exercises provide students the chance to develop their theoretical understanding and problem-solving skills. This ensures that students have understood the work and can apply it to real life situations. These are formatively assessed.
• Student performance will be assessed through examinations. Examinations test students' ability to work under pressure under timed conditions, to prepare for examinations and direct their own programme of revision and learning and develop key time management skills. The examination will provide the means for students to demonstrate the acquisition of subject knowledge and the development of their problem-solving skills.
• At the end of Michaelmas and Epiphany Terms, students will be given a formative self-assessed problem-solving assignment evaluating experimental or theoretical data about a material or system of interest. This develops problem-solving skills. Each assignment has a feedback session.

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