Syllabus

KE0063 Fundamentals in Chemistry II, 7.5 Credits

Subjects

Education cycle

Modules

Advanced study in the main field

Grading scale

Language

Prior knowledge

Objectives

Fundamentals in Chemistry is formally divided into two course modules (I, 15 credits and II, 7.5 credits) that together constitute a unit where the parts have progressive and interdisciplinary contents.

The aim of the course is to give basic knowledge and skills in chemistry with an emphasis on the demands of subsequent courses in soil sciences, environmental sciences, food sciences and biology.

On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• concretise energy transformation and chemical reactions in living cells

• discuss environmentally related processes from a chemical perspective

• describe the structure, composition and properties of molecules, especially the molecules that are of importance to soil, environment, foodstuffs and living organisms

• describe important reaction mechanisms

• account for transport across biological membrane and mechanisms for signal transduction

• describe the fundamental features of the genetic information flow

• carry out chemical experiments and use chemical analytical methods

• analyse, interpret and present obtained experimental results

Content

The courses Fundamentals in Chemistry I and II are divided into so called theme blocks, in which a part of the course content is set in focus. Each theme block is completed with a summarising discussion using examples from current research or from current societal or environmental problems. Both courses highlight central issues within environmental chemistry and sustainable development with seminars on current issues.

In the course Fundamentals in Chemistry II, chemical reactions are studied based on the energy of electrons.

Topics such as the principles of corrosion and how rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries function, the energy carrying molecules of the cell and the basic principles of energy supply in a living cell are covered.

In another theme block, the structure and metabolism of the cell, photosynthesis, the composition of biological membranes and processes connected to membranes e g signalling and transport are studied.

In a specialisation, the chemical processes that take place e g when leaves are senescing and how the different colours of the leaves arise are discussed.

Bases for further studies in biology and genetics are given in a unit where the flow of biological information from genetic information to biochemical function, bioinformatics and evolution is treated from a chemical perspective.

In a final theme block, human influence on the environment from a chemical perspective inter alia chemistry in todays energy production, batteries and catalysts as well as chemistry in renewable energy sources are discussed.

The teacher-supervised parts of the course include both traditional lectures, laboratory sessions and exercises in smaller groups as well as seminars and supervised self-study. In addition to teacher-supervised time, the student is assumed to carry out an essential amount of self-studies using both regular course material and interactive study materials.

Some teaching activities are compulsory, mainly seminars, laboratory sessions and presentations, but also certain lectures and exercises.

Training in scientific presentation is exercised (written and oral) through e g writing of memos, presentation of laboratory results and active discussion in seminars.

Grading form

Formats and requirements for examination

Examination formats: Written examination, compulsory presentations of laboratory results and of written assignments, compulsory laboratory practicals and written assignments.

Passing the course requires: Approved examination, approved laboratory reports and passed written assignments and approved participation in compulsory components.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Additional information

Responsible department

Department of Molecular Sciences