Module: Physical Chemistry Laboratory

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Physical Chemistry Laboratory
Module Code	CHM1017 (ITS: CS253)
Faculty	Chemical Sciences	School	Science & Health
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

The purpose of this module is the development of manipulative and observational skills through experimental procedures where the emphasis is mainly on the accurate determination of physical parameters. An appreciation of the limitations of the methods employed will be developed by the continual use of error analysis. An understanding of the fundamental principles in physical chemistry by conducting relevant experiments with an emphasis on reasoning and analysis of results.

Learning Outcomes

1. Perform basic Physical Chemistry laboratory experiments
2. Conduct experiments to develop knowledge of Spectroscopy, Kinetics, Electrochemistry and Thermodynamics
3. Record and analyse experimental data in order to make conclusions. For example considering experimental data obtained, to conclude on a first order reaction or a second order reaction
4. Develop and improve report writing skills by presenting weekly reports based on each experiment conducted
5. Complete a problem assignment sheet in physical chemistry

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Laboratory	24	Plan and Conduct Experiments
Independent Study	60	Preparation for laboratory sessions and weekly report writing.
Assignment Completion	41	Problem Sheet in Physical Chemistry
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	20179	Part of Term	Semester 2
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC2	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	David O'Connor	Module Teacher	Mercedes Vazquez, Robert Forster, Tia Keyes

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Performance evaluation	Pre-lab preparation	5%	As required
Practical/skills evaluation	Laboratory performance	15%	As required
Report(s)	Report writing for all experiments	65%	As required
Assignment	Physical Chemistry Problem Sheet	15%	As required

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Experiments in Physical Chemistry to address topics including Spectroscopy, Kinetics, Electrochemistry, Thermodynamics.
As indicated by the laboratory manual.

Indicative Reading List

Books:

DCU: 0, Essential:The Physical Chemistry DCU Laboratory Manual for 2nd year Applied Chemistry students.Supplementary:Physical Chemistry textbook references included in the Laboratory Manual. The 2nd year Physical Chemistry Lecture course.,

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None