Analytical chemistry is the branch of chemistry dealing with measurement, both qualitative and quantitative. This discipline is also concerned with the chemical composition of samples.
In the field, analytical chemistry is applied when detecting the presence and determining the quantities of chemical compounds, such as lead in water samples or arsenic in tissue samples. It also encompasses many different spectrochemical techniques, all of which are used under various experimental conditions. This branch of chemistry teaches the general theories behind the use of each instrument as well analysis of experimental data.
This course begins with a review of general chemistry and an introduction to analytical terminology. You will learn terms relevant to the process of measuring chemical compounds, such as sensitivity and detection limit. The course continues with a unit on common spectrochemical methods, followed by an extension of these methods in a unit on atomic spectroscopy. These methods allow the qualitative and quantitative analysis of compounds of interest. You will also learn about chromatography, which is the science behind purifying samples. Separations of complex mixtures are achieved through a variety of chromatographic techniques. The course concludes with a section on electrochemical methods, examining the interaction between the electrolyte and current of potential during chemical reactions. Please keep in mind that many chemistry courses, especially analytical chemistry, require laboratory experiments to reinforce these concepts; however, this course provides supplemental material in order to convey this information. After successful completion of this course, you will understand the techniques used in qualitative and quantitative analysis of chemical compounds.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Demonstrate a mastery of various methods of expressing concentration.
- Use a linear calibration curve to calculate concentration.
- Describe the various spectrochemical techniques as described within the course.
- Use sample data obtained from spectrochemical techniques to calculate unknown concentrations or obtain structural information where applicable.
- Describe the various chromatographies described within this course and analyze a given chromatogram.
- Demonstrate an understanding of electrochemistry and the methods used to study the response of an electrolyte through current of potential.
Course Requirements:
Have completed all “Pre-Requisites” of the Chemistry discipline (Introduction to Mechanics, Introduction to Electromagnetism, Single-Variable Calculus I and Single-Variable Calculus II).
Have completed General Chemistry I & General Chemistry II of the Chemistry discipline.
