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CHEM 324

CHEM 324
Analytical Chemistry

1. Catalog Entry

CHEM 324
Analytical Chemistry

Credit hours (4)
Prerequisites: C- or better in CHEM 112

An introduction to the principles and practices of analytical chemistry and their applications to societal issues.  The major topics covered in this course cover all steps of the analytical process including, but not limited to, problem definition, suitable technique selection, proper sampling, method validation, data collection, use of statistics, and record maintenance.  Traditional and modern gravimetric and volumetric techniques, potentiometry, spectroscopy, and separation techniques are introduced and utilized.  

Note(s): Applied Learning designated course.

 
2. Detailed Description of Course

The topics covered in CHEM 324 lecture and practiced in the laboratory are those considered unchanging principles of analytical chemistry that are applied to real-world scientific problems.  The analytical process will be highlighted including sampling, sampling preparation, methods of analysis for both qualitative and quantitative results, aspects of quality assurance including regulations, the interpretation of results with proper statistics and error propagation, and proper maintenance of records.  These fundamental principles will be applied to the areas of chemical equilibrium, gravimetric analysis, and volumetric analysis (precipitation, acid-base, complexometric, and redox titrations). The fundamentals of electrochemistry, spectrophotometry, and chromatography will be introduced and practiced.

3. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

The course emphasizes the utilization of analytical methods and techniques for solving real-world scientific problems.  Lecture periods will be used to introduce students to the theory and principles of analytical chemistry.  The content described above will be introduced and reinforced through practice problems and graded homework assignments.

Concepts introduced in lecture are then reinforced with real-world problems in the laboratory.  Methods and techniques commonly used in the chemical industry are practiced in the laboratory.  The laboratory notebook is maintained by each student and simulates the legal, complete and intelligible one kept by working chemists.  A professional atmosphere is maintained in the laboratory according to real-world standards.

4. Goals and Objectives of the Course

After successful completion of Analytical Chemistry, the student will be able to:
    1) Demonstrate good laboratory practices and skills
    2) Utilize common practices of proper record keeping
    3) Demonstrate knowledge of and be able to utilize the analytical process
    4) Demonstrate skills of statistics, experimental design, and method validation
    5) Select a reasonable analytical method for solving a relevant societal problem
    6) Recognize and be familiar with relevant regulations and regulatory agencies

5. Assessment Measures

Assessment of the student’s success in the course is based on examinations, a cumulative final examination, accuracy of laboratory work, maintenance of a laboratory notebook, and laboratory reports, as well as a variety of written assignments.

6. Other Course Information

None.

Review and Approval

March 01, 2021