Module ENS-1204:
Envi. Sci. Chem.
Chemistry in Environmental Science 2024-25
ENS-1204
2024-25
School of Environmental & Natural Sciences
Module - Semester 1 & 2
20 credits
Module Organiser:
Enlli Harper
Overview
This course builds on a basic knowledge of chemistry to examine the key underlying chemistry processes in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere and biological systems.
This course comprises of two main areas:
(1) Chemistry in the Environment
This series of lectures will examine examples of the key underlying chemistry relevant to processes in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
(2) Chemistry in Biological Systems - Biolmolecules An introduction to biologically active compounds including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, acetates, terpenes, shikimates, and alkaloids.
Assessment Strategy
-threshold -Threshold (D- to C+). Knowledge and understanding of the content covered in the course is basic; Problems of a routine nature are generally adequately solved.
-good -Good (B- to B+). Knowledge base covers all essential aspects of subject matter dealt with in the programme and shows good evidence of enquiry beyond this. Conceptual understanding is good. Problems of a familiar and unfamiliar nature are solved in a logical manner; solutions are generally correct and acceptable.
-excellent -Excellent (A- or higher). Knowledge base is extensive and extends well beyond the work covered in the programme. Conceptual understanding is outstanding. Problems of a familiar and unfamiliar nature are solved with efficiency and accuracy; problem-solving procedures are adjusted to the nature of the problem.
Learning Outcomes
- Describe and discuss key chemical processes studies relating to the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
- Draw chemical structures and representations of some of the major classes of biomolecules
- Explain the importance of the major classes of biomolecules in nature.
- Give examples of major metabolic pathways and describe how secondary metabolites arise from these routes.
Assessment method
Class Test
Assessment type
Summative
Description
ET1 An online test on key chemical processes relating to the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
Weighting
40%
Assessment method
Exam (Centrally Scheduled)
Assessment type
Summative
Description
ET2 An end of semester examination on biologically active compounds including primary and secondary metabolites and their importance in nature.
Weighting
40%
Assessment method
Report
Assessment type
Summative
Description
R1 Laboratory report on chemical kinetics It is expected that the report, including calculations will be 3-5 pages in length
Weighting
10%
Due date
27/01/2025
Assessment method
Report
Assessment type
Summative
Description
R2 Laboratory report on natural product extraction It is expected that the report, including calculations will be 3-5 pages in length
Weighting
10%
Due date
04/04/2025