Chemistry

Objectives

The aim of the curricular unit is to endow the student with an understanding of the structure, properties and transformation of materials in general, acquiring the knowledge of how and why atoms react, forming substances, and of how it is possible to deduct their properties from their composition and structure (structure/properties relationship).

Program

Theory:

1. Atomic structure.
2. Periodical properties of the elements.
3. Chemical bonds in: a) covalent compounds; b) metallic compounds; c) ionic compounds; d) coordination compounds.
4. Chemical bond and energy.
5. Intermolecular forces and properties of molecular compounds.
6. Physical, mechanical and electric alproperties of covalent, metallic and ionic compounds.
7. Matter transformation: a) acid / base reaction; b) oxidation / reduction reaction; c) precipitation.
8. Polymers.

Practical:

1. Basic laboratory techniques in chemistry.
2. Preparation of solutions.
3. Benzoic acid purification.
4. Relationship between copper mass and volume.
5. Caffeine extraction from an energetic drink.
6. Determination of the concentration of an absorbing species.
7. Separation of two substances from a mixture.
8. Determination of the acetic acid percentage in vinegar.
9. Standardization of a potassium permanganate solution.
10. Construction of a simple battery: Gerber cell.

Teaching Methodologies

The classes introducing each topic in syllabus contents are supported by power-point presentations. The remaining classes consist in the resolution of exercises concerning these topics. Student’s active participation is encouraged, including solving self-assessment questions on key points of the syllabus, and the presentation of possible solutions for the exercises. The lab activities are carried out according to the Practical Guide available online since the beginning of classes. All the pedagogical materials used is available online on the Moodle e-learning platform.

Evaluation – theoretical component (70%) and practical (30%), based on the following assessment items: The theoretical mark is based on the average of 2 written tests or on the result of a final exam. The practical mark is the result t of the assessment of laboratory work (work plan, performance in the lab and lab report). The result from the practical component must be at least 9.5/20 in order to pass the unit.

Bibliography

- Química, Raymond Chang, 8ª ed., McGraw-Hill
- Ligação Química, A. Romão Dias, IST Press, ISBN 972-8469-49-7.
- Chemistry, J. E. Brady, N. D. Jespersen and A. Hyslop, 6th Ed., John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2012
- Química - um curso universitário, Rollie J. Myers, Bruce M. Mahan, 4 ed, Edgard Blucher, ISBN-10: 8521200366.