Environmental Analytical Chemistry, 15 Credits

Contents

The course addresses how sampling and subsequent chemical analysis can be used to study and follow environmental processes, and how these can be simulated theoretically with the help of computer programmes. The course will primarily address analyses of organic and inorganic trace elements in solutions and on surfaces. The course deals with methods such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering, individually or in combination, and how these techniques can be used to solve various environmental chemical problems.

Expected learning outcomes

After completing the course, students shall be able to:
*     Explain how representative samples are taken, with the help of various sampling methods.
*     Describe and explain the physical principles behind the various analytical methods that are addressed during the course, and how measured data are based on these.
*     Identify, evaluate and discuss what sampling and/or analysis method that is best suited for solving various types of environmental chemical problems.
*     Calculate results of environmental chemical processes in water solutions and on surfaces with the help of thermodynamic data.
*     Critically evaluate and interpret experimental data, as well as data from model calculations.
*     Independently plan and practically conduct simpler environmental investigations including sampling, sample handling, analysis and quality assurance.
*     Within given time frames, present written reports based on laboratory exercises.
*     Reflect, in a log book, on his/her own learning, both individually and in a group.

Required Knowledge

To be able to follow this course the student has to have passed: a number of chemistry courses equal to 60 ECTS, Advanced Experimental Tools in Chemistry (15 ECTS, 5KE144) , or the equivalent. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English A/5 (IELTS (Academic) with a minimum overall score of 5.5 and no individual score below 5.0. TOEFL PBT (Paper-based Test) with a minimum total score of 530 and a minimum TWE score of 4. TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) with a minimum total score of 72 and a minimum score of 17 on the Writing Section).

Form of instruction

During the course, the students will be trained to independently evaluate and choose different types of sampling and analysis methods. With the help of problem-based learning, the students will also be trained in collaboration and problem-solving in groups. Written reports will be made for laboratory exercises. Teaching can be in the form of lectures, lessons, group exercises, seminars, laboratory experiments, sampling in the field, demonstrations or project work. Laboratory experiments, group exercises and keeping an individual reflection log book are mandatory.

Examination modes

During the course, its various elements are continually examined through practical exercises, and  mandatory submission of assignments. Reports of laboratory experiments are assessed with the following grades: VG (Pass with distinction), G (Pass) or U (Fail). The reflection log book and the group work are assessed with G (Pass) or U (Fail). For the whole course, the grades Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with distinction (VG) are awarded. Those who pass an examination may not take the same examination again with the aim of achieving a higher grade. A student who has taken two examinations for a course or a part of a course, without passing either examination, has the right to have another examiner appointed, if there are no specific reasons for not doing so (Chapter 6, Section 22, HEA). Requests for a different examiner are to be made to the Head of the Department of Chemistry.

Accreditation requests are always examined individually (see the University's Rules and Regulations and the Accreditation Regulations).