ANLY06002 2019 Data Processing, Molecular Graphics and Instrumentation

Describe the components of selected general purpose analytical instrumentation  

Operate, optimise and calibrate selected general purpose analytical instrumentation

Process and present analytical data using spreadsheets.

Collect and process data from modern scientific instrumentation

This module will be delivered fulltime.  Teaching methodology will employ a problem based learning (PBL) approach. This will be supplemented with introductory lectures, laboratory exercises, independent learning and directed learning. This approach is expected to address student learning needs. Moodle will be used as a repository of educational resources and as a means of assessment (e.g. quizzes, uploading assignments and journals). Self-assessment tests and other forms of formative assessment are provided to students to check their own progress towards achieving the learning outcomes of the module and to motivate learning.

This module is 100% Continuous Assessment.  Laboratory skills and report-writing ability are assessed as part of the practical work performed during the module. Regular summative tests are used to encourage engagement with the module, monitor progress and provide feedback.  The continuous assessment will include the following elements: assessment of performance in laboratory exercises (30%); assignments (15%) and practical reports (15%); At least four assessments of combined practical and theoretical ability will be carried out during the semester (40%).

Repeat written assessment and assignments.

1. Describe the components of selected general purpose analytical instrumentation

FTIR spectrometer

UV-Visible spectrometers including overlay scans

Flame Atomic absorption spectrometers

Ion-selective electrodes, potentiometers

Conductivity meters

Automatic titrators e.g. Karl Fischer method

Gas chromatographs

Regarding Forensic Science Society (FSS) component standard describe the application and  theory relating to a the range of analytical techniques that are available to the forensic scientist, understand the parameters involved in method selection and be able to provide a forensic strategy and an analytical strategy for a given scenario.

2. Operate, optimise and calibrate selected general purpose analytical instrumentation

Practical implementation learning outcome number 1 above

Operation, calibration, safety, care and maintenance of analytical instrumentation

Data processing of infrared and uv‑visible spectral data

Regarding the FSS component standard it is important to demonstrate an understanding of the theory relating range of analytical procedures, specifically within the forensic context.

Regarding the FSS component standard demonstrate competence in operating a range of modern analytical instruments and be conversant with the use of related computer software

3. Process, chart and present analytical data using spreadsheets.

Presenting scientific data with an Excel spreadsheet( significant figures, number formats, absolute and relative addressing, creating formula, plotting scientific data)  

Processing of titrimetric data using an Excel spreadsheet.

Determination of titration end-points using derivative plots

Grans plots an Excel spreadsheet.

Determination of pKa from titration data an Excel spreadsheet.

Regarding the FSS component standard evaluate and interpret data from equipment applied to a range of forensic examinations.

4. Utilise molecular graphics applications to both create and study chemical structures

Use Biovia Draw or equivalent two-dimensional molecular structural drawing software to reinforce chemical concepts, terminology and structural display formats.

Create Kekule, condensed and shorthand structures using Biovia Draw

Use Biovia Draw to provide feedback on structures including valency, molecular weights and IUPAC names

Use Rasmol to examine in 3-D chemical structures of simple molecules including standard display formats(wireframe, sticks, ball and stick, spacefill), CPD (Corey, Pauling and Koltun) colouring schemes and export of structures between applications for reporting purposes

Use Rasmol to determine bond lengths, bond angles, torsion angles and other molecular features