Prospectus

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Chemistry

Course
2019-2020

Tags

EES/GPH

Admissions requirements

None

Description

Chemistry is the central science in the natural sciences, describing the basic elements of matter and how matter can be converted from one form into another. Chemistry is everywhere around us, in food, batteries, medicine, plastics and even our own body. Many grand societal challenges such as healthy aging or the transition to the use of sustainable energy require chemists to provide solutions. In this course, the student learns the basic concepts of atoms, molecules and chemical reactions, including time and length scales of the nanoworld. Second, the ubiquitous presence of chemistry and its relevance in providing solutions for the big challenges of the future will be discussed.

Course objectives

After this course the student is able to:

  • Classify matter, recognize and describe it as consisting of atoms, molecules, ions or covalent networks,

  • Describe the structure of atoms and the rationale behind the periodic table of the elements,

  • Describe chemical reactions and why some proceed whereas other do not based on kinetic and thermodynamic arguments,

  • Give examples of chemical reactions relevant for society and evaluate pros and cons of the related chemical processes and products,

  • Discuss the role that chemistry has to play in big challenges for the future of mankind.

Timetable

Once available, timetables will be published in the e-Prospectus.

Mode of instruction

The basic background in chemistry will be taught in lectures and workgroups. The societal aspects will be taught in workgroups, general debate and presentations.

Assessment

Learning aim 1-5: In class participation (10%, ongoing)
Learning aim 1-3: Written test with problems and short essay questions (week 4, 15% + week 8, 35%)
Learning aim 4: Written essay (25%, week 5)
Learning aim 5: Presentation (15%, week 7)

Please note:

  • In accordance with article 4.8 of the Course and Examination Regulations (OER), within 30 days after the publication of grades, the instructor will provide students the opportunity to inspect their exams/coursework.

  • There is a no re-sit policy at Leiden University College.

Blackboard

There will be a Blackboard site available for this course. Students will be enrolled at least one week before the start of classes.

Reading list

TBA

Registration

This course is open to LUC students and LUC exchange students. Registration is coordinated by the Education Coordinator. Interested non-LUC students should contact course.administration@luc.leidenuniv.nl.