Tags
EES, GPH
Admissions requirements
None
Description
Why does ice float in water? And why do leaves change color? How does a battery work? What is a semiconductor and how is it used to convert solar energy into electricity? What holds two strands of DNA molecules together?...
In this course we will answer these and many other questions, starting from a discussion of basic chemical concepts, including the electronic structure of atoms, chemical bonding and molecular structure. We will then discuss the kinetics and thermodynamics of chemical reactions and learn how to describe chemical equilibria. We will explore different types of reactions, from simple acid-base systems to more complex biochemical processes. At the end of the course, we will look into the chemistry of the environment, keeping a focus on sustainability.
Course objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
Think critically and analyze chemical problems
Use chemical symbolic language to describe chemical processes
Understand the importance of the Periodic Table of the Elements
Explain in detail the atomic and molecular structure of common materials
Describe the relation between the microscopic structure and macroscopic properties of common materials
Understand why chemical reactions happen and predict the course of simple reactions
Discuss energy production and storage considerations from a chemical perspective
Discuss the chemical composition of planet earth and the human body
Developed an appreciation for chemistry as a science contributing to energy and health related topics
Timetable
Once available, timetables will be published here.
Mode of instruction
The course will consist of structured lectures including demonstrations and example calculations.
Assessment
Individual assignment 1: 15%
Individual assignment 2: 15%
Mid-term exam: 20%
In-class participation: 10%
Final exam: 40%
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 Curriculum Coordinator. Interested non-LUC students should contact course.administration@luc.leidenuniv.nl.
Remarks
Although not required, it is assumed that students have studied chemistry at an IB standard level, VWO or equivalent degree up until high school graduation.