electiveHQ

This is an optional module intended for students with a background in Chemistry at Leaving Certificate or equivalent. The purposes of the module are to reinforce key basic concepts, and to introduce students to the central role that molecular science now plays in understanding our environment, technology, life processes, and in the design of new materials and medicines. The first section of the course covers several case studies which pinpoint how chemistry is applied in society, technology and how it can be employed in alleviating significant global challenges as derived from the UN sustainable development goals. Alongside with the case studies fundamental principles are covered relevant to the synthesis of natural/synthetic polymers and structure-property correlations which contribute to the current plastic crisis. The main principles of electrochemistry (galvanic cell and thermodynamics involved), energy storage in batteries, water electrolysis for H2 evolution, and fuel cells will be also covered. Finally, the basic natural/artificial photosynthetic concepts which allow for ‘green’ H2 evolution and conversion of CO2 and waste (e. g., plastics) to useful ‘green’ fuels/chemicals will be also discussed. The second half of the course consists of a series of case studies of important drugs, including aspirin, the beta-lactam antibiotics and cimetidine. The case studies are used to revise fundamental concepts of structure and reactivity of organic compounds, and to illustrate the development of medicinal chemistry and the key role that it plays in alleviating human suffering. There will be four/five experimental sessions associated with the module and each of these will involve student preparation (using an online assessment), carrying out experiments and a laboratory report. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the mode of delivery, assessment and content of the module may be subject to change. For example, this could result in switching some lab sessions in the School of Chemistry to at-distance if physical distancing requirements are re-introduced.