Module: Inorganic & Physical Chemistry Lab

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Inorganic & Physical Chemistry Lab
Module Code	CHM1020 (ITS: CS260)
Faculty	Chemical Sciences	School	Science & Health
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

The purpose of this module is the development of observational and manipulative skills through experimental laboratory procedures and problem solving that combine a wide range of analytical, classical, spectroscopic and synthetic techniques and knowledge of various aspects of the 2nd year lecture courses in physical and inorganic chemistry. The purpose of this module is the development of manipulative and observational skills through experimental procedures where the emphasis is on the accurate determination of physical parameters and on research and report writing. 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 through experiment.

Learning Outcomes

1. Perform basic synthetic chemical and analytical laboratory experiments.
2. Use a range of chemistry and analytical laboratory instrumentation.
3. Write a comprehensive laboratory report discussing the importance of the experimental results.
4. Illustrate and comprehend the inorganic chemical reactions taking place in each experiment.
5. Perform basic physical chemistry laboratory experiments. Conduct experiments to develop knowledge of Spectroscopy, Kinetics, Electrochemistry and Thermodynamics.
6. 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.
7. Develop and improve report writing skills by presenting weekly reports based on each experiment conducted.
8. Complete an problem sheet on Inorganic Chemistry
9. Complete a problem sheet on Physical Chemistry

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Laboratory	18	Inorganic Laboratory experiments as detailed in the laboratory manual
Laboratory	18	Physical Laboratory experiments as detailed in the laboratory manual
Independent Study	60	Preparation for laboratory sessions and report writing post laboratory session.
Assignment Completion	29	Completing a problem sheet provided in Inorganic and Physical Chemistry
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	20181	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	John Gallagher	Module Teacher	Andrew Kellett, Mercedes Vazquez, Robert Forster, Silvia Giordani, Tia Keyes

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Assignment	Inorganic Chemistry experiments	50%	As required
Assignment	Physical Chemistry experiments	50%	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	a,
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

Inorganic and Physical Experiments
As detailed in the laboratory manuals.

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Vincent Hooper: 0, Inorganic and Physical Laboratory experiments,

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None