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