Subject details

At the completion of this subject students will be able to

  1. Identify the wide range of applications areas in which analytical science plays a significant role
  2. Apply the fundamentals of sampling methods and techniques
  3. Understand the physical principles of a range of quantitative spectroscopic techniques
  4. Perform chemical calculations involving the measurement of amount, methods of expressing the concentration of solutions and the stoichiometry of reactions
  5. Describe the use of appropriate calibration models for quantitative analysis and apply basic statistical techniques to analyse analytical data and extract useful information
  6. Apply appropriate critical and analytical thought in a scientific manner and extend your appreciation of the fundamental principles of chemistry into areas of major importance in which analytical science plays a significant role; such as forensic science, environmental and/or pharmaceutical analysis, food chemistry and laboratory medicine.

  • Topics

    • The Analytical Sequence and Basics of Analysis
    • Gravimetry
    • Titrimetry and Acid-Base Equilibria
    • Spectroscopy
    • UV Visible Spectrometry
    • Photoluminescence Spectrometry
    • Calibration Methods
    • Infrared Spectroscopy
    • Near-Infrared Spectrometry
    • Raman Spectroscopy
    • Basics of Chromatography

  • Study resources

    • Instructional Methods

      • Online Quizzes/Tests
      • Online assignment submission
      • Standard Media

Entry Requirements

You are recommended to have completed the following subjects(s) or have equivalent knowledge before starting this unit:

Others

VCE Chemistry (Year 12 equivalent)

Special requirements

No special requirements

Analytical science is the term given to the study of determination and measurement of substances, both artificial and natural. It is of fundamental importance to modern society, from the tests performed to check the purity of food and medicines, to the daily monitoring of industrial wastes and the analysis of evidence in the forensic laboratory, we see, use and benefit from analytical science every day. The ever-increasing demand for more detailed and accurate data means that trained analytical scientists are always in demand.
This subject examines 'what analytical scientists do' using case study material from fields such as manufacturing quality control, food science and environmental analysis. A mix of classical analytical methods as well as modern spectroscopic techniques will be covered, giving students a firm grounding in this fascinating subject.

  • Assignment 1 - Calibration techniques (40%)
  • Assignment 2 - Analytical methods (30%)
  • Assignment 3 - Sampling strategy (30%)

Textbooks are subject to change within the academic year. Students are advised to purchase their books no earlier than one to two months before the start of a subject.

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Related degrees

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences)