TUMAINI UNIVERSITY
SEBASTIAN KOLOWA UNIVERSITY COLLEGE (SEKUCo)
DRAFT CURRICULA FOR BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS
MAY 2010
0
INTRODUCTION
The importance of science and technology in the socio-economic development of Tanzania today
cannot be over estimated. This is why the Sebastian Kolowa University College of Tumaini
University (SEKUCo) is introducing science teaching subjects in its Bachelor of Education
Special Needs (BEd SN) programme in the academic year 2010/2011.
The objective of introducing science teaching subjects is to contribute to national efforts of
increasing the number and quality of science teachers for secondary schools and teacher training
colleges. Likewise, with the Bachelor of Science (Eco-Tourism and Nature Conservation)
already running at SEKUCo STARTING in the academic year 2009/2010, the introduction of
biology, chemistry and physics will enable optimal utilization of staff and, laboratories and
equipment. In this way, we hope that the two pro science programmes will add add synergy to
each other.
Students in the Bachelor of Education Special Needs (BEdSN) programme will choose biology,
chemistry or physics as one of their teaching subjects. This increases the range of teaching
subjects at SEKUCo from the current seven (English, Kiswahili, Mathematics, Economics,
Geography, Political Science and Administration) to ten, covering the arts, social sciences and
physical sciences.
Course Assessment
All courses will follow the assessment procedure suggested under the following list of activities.
 Course Work will be distributed according to the following
- Fieldwork, portfolio, course journal, or any other form of course project
determined by the instructor (15%)
- Timed Test (15%)
- Take Home Essay (10%)
- Semester presentation (10%)
 Final Examination 50%
 TOTAL COURSE MARKS (100%)
On behalf of SEKUCO, I wish to express sincere thanks to all who contributed towards the
completion of this document. Further inputs are invited to improve the curricula.
Dr. Fanuel C. Shechambo
Deputty Provost for Academic Affairs
SEKUCo
6 th May 2010
1
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS, OBJECTIVES AND CONTENT
I BIOLOGY COURSES
. The list of courses for the six semesters is shown below.
Semester Mapping for Biology Core Courses
Year Semester
Course Code and Title
1
SBL 101: Introductory Cell Biology and
I
Genetics
SBL 102: Introductory Botany
SBL 103: Invertebrate Zoology
SBL 104 Chordate Zoology
II
SBL 105: Developmental Biology
SBL 106: Ecology I
2
SBL 201: Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology
III
SBL 202: Parasitology
SBL 203: Introduction to Microbiology
SBL 205: Taxonomy of Higher Plants
IV
SBL 206: Ecology II
SBL 207 Scientific Methods
3
V
SBL 301: Entomology
SBL 302 Evolution
SBL 303: Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology
II
VI
SBL 302: Anatomy of Angiosperms
SBL 303: Vertebrate Anatomy and physiology
II
Credit
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
Optional Courses
SBIO 206: Ecology II
SBIO 303: Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology II
2
2
SBL 101: INTRODUCTORY CELL BIOLOGY AND GENETICS
3 CREDITS
Course Description
This is a first year course. It introduces the basic cell components (atoms, molecules), structures
(nucleic acids, proteins and enzymes), organelles and processes. It intends to link up the cell
processes with the mechanisms of inheritance as explained by neo-Mendelian approaches. The
course will enable students understand the mechanisms of transmitting characters in their varied
states to future generations, the core in all biological systems.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course student should be able to:
 Describe the cell concept, cell structure, cellular organization of the living matter.
 Relate phenotype of an organism to genotype of an organism.
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Course Contents
Definition of a cell, atoms, molecules in cells, proteins and enzymes, nucleic acids, lipids and
proteins; Structure and functions of cell organelles and membranes; Meiosis, mitosis and game to
genesis; Specialized cells; Mendelian segration; Independent assortment and polyhbrid
inheritance; Dominance relations; Gene interactions and modification of Mendelian ratios.
Autosomal linkage, sex-linkage and sex-related inheritance; Gene mapping in diploids; Sex
determination in prokaryotes, plants and animals; Pseudoallelism, multiple allelism and blood
group genetics; Aspects of quantitative genetics; Cytoplasmic genetic systems.
Delivery: 30 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Burns, G.W. (1989), The Science of Genetics (4th Ed). Collier-McMillan, London.
2. Gardner, E. and Snustadt, P. (1994), Principles of Genetics (6th Ed), John Wiley
3. Suzuki, D.T., A.J.F. Griffiths and R.C. Lewontin (1998), Introduction to Genetic
Analysis (4th Ed). W.H. Freeman, New York
4. Dyson, R.D. (1975), Essentials of Cell Biology. Allyn and Bacon Inc. Boston
5. Widnell C.C. and K.H. Pfenninger (1990), Essential Cell Biology. Williams & Wilkins.
London
6. Hartl D.L. (1995), Human Genetics (2nd Ed). Harper & Row.
7. Russel P.J. (1998), Genetics (3rd Ed). Harper & Collins Publishers
SBL 102: INTRODUCTORY BOTANY
3 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is aimed at introducing students to the biology of plants. It is a broad survey of plant
nutrition, physiology, development, anatomy, morphology, reproduction, evolution and ecology.
An emphasis is placed on the structure and function of plants and the relevance of plants to
humanity and the global environment.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Use the morphology of different parts to place plants in their phyla.
 Describe the evolutionary relationship of plant phyla.
 Describe the structure and life cycle of selected plants.
Course Contents
A general evolutionary survey of the plant kingdom: bacteria, viruses, slime, molds, fungi, algae,
pteridophytes, gymnosperms and angiosperms. Structure and life cycle of selected examples to
be given: morphology of roots, stems, leaves, fruits and seeds; aestivation and placentation.
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
3
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Pandey, SN; Trivedi, PS and Misra, SP (1996), A textbook of Botany, Vol. 1. Vikas,
Publishing House PVT Ltd
Pandey, SN; Trivedi, PS and Misra, SP (1998), A textbook of Botany, 11th Revised Edition,
Vol II . Vikas, Publishing House PVT Ltd
Salisbury, FB & Ross, CW (1991), Plant Physiology 4th Edition Wadsworth Publishing
Company
Ross, C.W. (1974), Plant Physiology Laboratory Manual. Wadsworth Publishing
Company, California.
Jensen, WA and Salisbury, FB (1972), Botany: An Ecological Approach. Wadsworth
Publishing Company Inc., California.
Dutta, AC. (1999), Botany for Degree Students. Oxford University Press, Culcutta.
SBL 103: INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY
3 CREDITS
Course Description
This is a basic course to all students studying biological sciences. It aims at exposing students to
a survey of invertebrates in the evolutionary perception. The narrative of the Kingdom Protista
including protozoans will be emphasized.
Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Classify animals based on their basic structure and functional attributes.
 Describe the evolutionary relationship among invertebrates groups.
Course Contents
Classification of animals: habitats, basic structure and functional features of the Protozoa, Polifera,
Radiata, Acoeloata, Pseudo-coelomata. Annelida, Arthropoda, Mollusca and Echinodermata.
Evolutionary relationships among invertebrate phyla.
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Wallace, R.L. and K.T. Walter (2004), Invertebrate Zoology: A Laboratory Manual.
Prentice Hall Incorporated.
2. Brusca, R.C. and G.J. Brusca (1990), Invertebrates. Sinauer Associates Inc.
3. Marshall, A.J. and W.D. Williams (1974), Textbook of Zoology: Invertebrates,
Macmillan. Ruppert, E.E. and R.D. Barnes (1994), Invertebrate Zoology. Saunders
College Wallace,
4. Barrington, E.J.W. (1974), Invertebrate structure and Function. ELBS
SBL 104: CHORDATE ZOOLOGY
3 CREDITS
Course Description
The Chordates include not only the vertebrates, but also a number of other less familiar animal
forms. The course is intended as an introduction to all chordate animals, with special emphasis
on their evolution and classification.
4
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Describe the basic chordate biology (including structure and function) of Cyclostomata,
Chondrichthyes, Osteichthyes, Amphibia, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals.
 Explain evolutionary relationships and classify the following chordates: Cyclostomata,
Chondrichthyes, Osteichthyes, Amphibia, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals.
Course Contents
The chordate plan, its establishment and elaboration as exemplified by the lower chordates:
Protochordates – Hemichordata, Urochordata, Cephalochordata. Adaptability of the plan to the
higher chordates. A study of the evolution of the vertebrate classes: Cyclostomata,
Chondrichthyes, Osteichthyes, Amphibia, Reptilia, Aves and Mammalia, emphasizing the major
structural and functional features of each class. Comparative Anatomy: lntegumentary System,
Skeletal System, Coelom and Digestive System, Respiratory System, Circulatory System,
Nervous System, Receptor Organs, Endocrine System, Urinogenital System and Embryology.
Delivery: 30 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Young, J.Z. (1981) The Life of Vertebrates (3rd Ed.) Oxford University Press, Oxford
2. Pough, F. H.; J. B. Heiser, and W. N. McFarland. (1996). Vertebrate Life, 4th ed. Prentice
Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ.
3. Walker, W. F., Jr. (2004), Vertebrate Dissection, 9th ed. Saunders College Publ.,
Brooks/Cole, Belmont, CA.
4. Jordan, E.L. and Verma, P.S. (2009), Chordate Zoology. S. Chand and Co.Ltd,
SBL 105: DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This is a first year course. It exposes students to basic concepts of organism development.
Students will be introduced to the stages of animal development from gametogenesis to
morphogenesis involved in the early development.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Describe classical concepts of embryology.
 Describe gametogenesis, fertilization, cellular differentiation,
metamorphosis and teratology.
 Compare the development process in different classes of vertebrates.
organogenesis,
Course Contents
Classical concepts of embryology, Gametogenesis: origin of germ cells; spermatogenesis;
oogenesis; vitellogenesis. Sperm-egg encounter and penetration. Changes following fertilization;
leavage, gastrulation, neurulation and morphogenesis. Mechanism of cellular differentiation;
embryonic induction during differentiation and organogenesis. Metamorphosis; Teratology. A
comparative study of development in several vertebrate classes.
5
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Balinsky, B.I. (1981) An Introduction to Embryology. CBS College Publishing.
2. Gilbert, S.F. (1994) Developmental Biology (4th Ed). Sinauer Associates, Sunderland M.A
3. Tyler, M.S. (1994) Developmental Biology. A Guide for Experimental Study. Sinauer,
Associates, Sunderland M.A.
SBL 106: ECOLOGY 1
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course aims to expose students to knowledge on how living things interact with their
environment. The course should enlighten students as to how to react and control factors that
may lead to the perturbations of the ecosystems so that they are maintained for a continued life
of communities including humans.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Define and explain different terms and concepts in ecology.
 Describe the existence and meaning of ecological systems, their operating principles and
their structural and functional characteristics.
Course Contents
An overview of ecology: Types of organisms, food chains, Food webs, Trophic structure,
Ecological pyramids and properties of ecosystems, Flow of energy in ecosystems, laws of
thermodynamics, Factors affecting and methods of measuring primary productivity. Comparative
productivity of different ecosystems, Secondary productivity, Models of energy flow, Ecological
efficiencies, cycling of nutrients: nutrient pools, nutrient flow, turnover rate, nutrient budgets,
Human disturbances of nutrient cycles, global warning, acidi rain, depletion of ozone layer.
Community structure, species composition, measures of dominance, species diversity,
community similarity, pattern diversity, stability, gradient analysis, cordination and ecological
succession.
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Chapman J. L. and Reiss M. J. (2002). Ecology: Principles and Applications Cambridge
University Press.
2. Kormondy, E. (1999). Concepts of Ecology. Prentice Hall, New Delhi
3. Stilling, P. (1992). Introductory Ecology. Prentice Hall Inc., New Jersey
SBL 201: VERTEBRATE ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I
Course Description
6
3 CREDITS
The course is targeting to give a general understanding of the vertebrate body, the structure and
functions of tissues and organs.
The knowledge gained in this course will be useful for teaching, research and as basis for other
Biology courses.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students will be able to:
 Describe the basic structure of the vertebrate body
 Explain how the various systems function and interact in the vertebrate body.
 Relate the systems and structures functions to the adaptation of the animal to its
ecosystem.
Course Contents
Structure and function of vertebrate tissues and organ systems. The integument: dermal and
epidermal derivatives. Skeletal tissue, cranial and post-cranial skeletons. Smooth, skeletal and
cardiac muscles. Mechanisms of muscle contraction. Nerve cells, regional anatomy and
physiology of the brain and spinal cord. Structure and function of the sense organs. Endocrine
system: the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroids, adrenal glands and pancreatic islets. Hormones of
pancreatic islets.
Delivery: 30 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Burkitt, H.G.B. Young, and J.W. Health (1993), Wheater’s Functional Histology, (3rd Ed).
Longman Group Ltd
2. Kent, G.C. (1983), Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates. Publisher Mosby Year Book
3. Schmidt-Nielsen, K. (1997), Animal Physiology: Adaptation and environment (5th Ed).
Cambridge University Press.
4. Campbell, N.A., L.G. Mitchell and J.B. Reece (1997), Biology: Concepts and Connections
(2nd Ed.) The Benjamin/Cummings Publishing Company.
5. Hoar, W.S. (1983), General and Comparative Physiology (3rd) Prentice-Hall Inc.
6. Martini, F.H. (1998), Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology (4th Ed) Prentice-Hall Inc.
SBL 202: PARASITOLOGY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is aimed at exposing students to study the main elements of the biology and patterns
of life cycles of the main groups of parasites. The course will inculcate into the students
appreciation of the ways in which hosts and parasites interact with each other and the basic
principles of disease prevention.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students will be able to:
 Define terms and concepts in parasitology.
 Describe and characterize the main groups of parasites, vectors and their hosts.
 Relate parasites to diseases inflicting human, domestic and wild life animals.
7
Course Contents
Concepts in parasitism, parasitism as a lifestyle, origins, adaptations and diversity of parasites.
Morphology of common parasites, Live cycles and importance of Protozoa/Protists (amoebae,
flagellates, ciliates, coccidians), helminthes (Platyhelminthes, Nematoda, Acanthocephala, and
Pentastomida), and parasitic arthropods (flies, ticks, mites, lice, fleas, crustaceans, bugs etc.) as
agents or vectors, respectively, of disease to humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. Brief
consideration on pathogenesis and manifestations of parasitic infections covered (i.e. how
parasites cause disease in their hosts). Ecology of parasitic infections: spatial distribution of
parasites (geographic, host and site specificity); niche biology and niche restriction;
epidemiology. Immunology of parasitism: responses of host to parasites and of parasites to hosts;
innate immunity, acquired immunity and methods parasites use to evade host immune responses.
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
1.
2.
3.
References
Roberts, L.S. and J. Janovy Jr. (2000), Gerald D. Schmidt & Larry S. Roberts
‘Foundations of Parasitology (6th Ed). McGraw Hill. New York.
Smyth, J.D. (1994), Introduction to Animal Parasitology (3rd Ed). Cambridge University
Press, Cambridge.
Each, G.W. and J.C. Fernandez (1993), A Functional Biology of Parasitism: Ecological
and Evolutionary Implications. Chapman & Hall. London.
SBL 203: INTRODUCTION TO MICROBIOLOGY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended to introduce students to basic concepts in microbiology and to inculcate
an appreciation of the presence, diversity and role of microorganisms in nature. Students will
also be trained in microorganism handling techniques including isolation, culturing and
identification of microorganisms. The course coverage will relate microbiology to Parasitology
and Physiology.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Explain and relate microorganism to biochemical processes in nature.
 Demonstrate techniques of isolation and culturing microorganisms.
 Classify microorganisms based on their structures.
Course Contents
Brief history of microbiology as a science. Participation of microorganisms in biogeochemical
cycles of elements. The cell and its structure; Eukaryotes – prokaryotes. Brief survey of the
diversity of prokaryotes. The classification of prokaryotes. Growth of microorganisms.
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
8
References
1. Schlegel, H. G. (1990), General Microbiology 6th Edition. Cambridge University Press
2. Talaro, K.; Talaro, A. (1993), Foundations of Microbiology. WCB Publishers.
SBL 205: TAXONOMY OF HIGHER PLANTS
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course will expose students to the basic knowledge and principles of taxonomy of higher
plants and their evolutionary relationship.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students will be able to:
 Identify and classify plants based on their phylogenic relationship and evolutionary
features.
 Prepare and manage Herbarium specimens of plants.
Course Contents
History of plant classification, taxonomy of angiosperms emphasizing on the phylogenetic
relationships and evolutionary features in classifications, the Botanical Code (ICBN), Herbarium
management and techniques, detailed studies of selected families among seed plants,
Hybridization and evolution, sources of taxonomic information, character and character states,
phytogeography and systematic, experimental taxonomy
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Woodland D.W. (1991). Contemporary Planet Systematics. Prentice Hall, Englewood
Cliffs, New Jersey.
2. Cronquist A (1981). An Integrated System of Classification of Flowering Plants.
Columbia University Press, New York.
SBL 206: ECOLOGY II
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is aimed at enabling students acquire comprehensive understanding of concepts and
principles of ecology at the level of populations and individuals and application of population
ecology at the organism level (including adaptations).
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Describe all concepts relevant to the population ecology.
 Develop, adapt and use models of population dynamics.
 Explain the interaction of organism with their environment and the consequences.
9
Course Contents
Describing populations, patterns of distribution in space and time, age, structure, life tables.
Dynamics of population growth and decline: arithmetic and exponential growth, J- and S-curves,
carrying capacity, strategies of population growth (r- and K-selection), migration. Limiting
factors, density-independent factors and density- dependent factors: competition, territoriality,
predation, parasitism, herbivory. Symbiosis, commensalisms and mutualism. Models of
population dynamics. Dispersal. Competitive exclusion principle and resource partitioning.
Interactions between organisms and the physico-chemical environment, responses and
adaptations of organisms to the environment.
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Begon, M., J.L. Harper, and C.P. Townsend (1996), Ecology: Individuals, Populations
and Communities. Blackwell Scientific Publications, Oxford.
2. Smith, R.L. (1986), Elements of Ecology (2nd Ed). Harper and Row Publishers, New
York.
3. Chiras, D.D. (1988), Environmental Science: A Framework for Decision Making (2nd Ed)
The Benjamin/Cummings Publishing Company, Inc. Menlo Park.
4. Collier, B.D., G.W. Cox, A.W. Johnson and P.C. Miller (1974), Dynamic Ecology.
Prentice-Hall Int., Inc., London.
5. Odum, E.P. (1971), Fundamentals of Ecology, Third Edition, W.G. Saunders Co.
London.
SBL 207: SCIENTIFIC METHODS
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended to introduce to undergraduate students the basic skills for designing small
scientific research projects and finally producing reports.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students will be able to:
 Design and write scientific research proposals
 Analyze and interpret scientific data.
 Write good scientific reports and papers.
Course Contents
Planning scientific research work; preparation of a research proposal: Literature survey; data
collection. Presentation of results: statistical analyses; planning the article; Data presentation.
The first draft and revisions. Review of manuscripts. The final draft. From manuscript into print;
indexing; general style conventions; style in special fields; abbreviations and symbols; word
usage; annotated bibliography.
10
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Scheiner, SM & Gurevitch, J. (eds) (1993), Design and analysis of ecological
experiments. Chapman and Hall, New York.
2.
Fowler, J., Cohen, L. and Jarvis, P. (1999), Practical statistics for field Biology. John Wiley.
259pp.
3. Kothari, CR (1997), Research Methodology. Methods and Techniques. 2nd Edition.
4. Wishwa Prakashan Publishers.
5. Sokal, RR & Rolf, JF (1995), Biometry. The Principles and Practice of Statistics in
Biological Research. 3rd Edition. WH Freeman and Company. New York.
6. Zar, JH (1999), Biostatistical Analysis. 3rd Edition. Prentice-Hall International Inc.
SBL 301: ENTOMOLOGY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This is one of the basic courses in biological science that exposes students to the biology and
economic importance of insects. The course extends knowledge acquired in studying
invertebrates in general to the phylum Arthropoda.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students will be able to:
 Describe the general biology of insects.
 Classify insects of economical importance.
 Explain and apply the principles of pest and vector management.
Course Contents
Classification of the Insect. Insect morphology, anatomy and physiology. Insect development,
ecology and behaviour. Dispersal and migration. Social life of insects; Biology of insects of
medical, agricultural, forestry and veterinary importance. Insects as vectors of animal and human
diseases; Principles of control of insect pests and disease vectors.
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
Reference
1. Scholtz, C.H.; Holm, E. (1996), Insects of Southern Africa. University of Pretoria, Pretoria.
2. Chapman, R.F. (1998), The Insects: Structure and Function. Hodder and Stoughton.
London
3. Neuman I.D. (1994), Systematic and Applied Entomology. An Introduction. Melbourne
University Press Melbourne.
4. Borror, D.J., O.A. Tripliolm and N.F. Johnson (1989), An Introduction to the Study of
Insects (6th Ed). Saunders College Publishing, Philadelphia.
5. Allan, W. (1994), Arthropods of Humans and Domestic Animals. A Guide to Preliminary
Identification. Chapman and Hall, London
11
6. Wigglerworth V.B. (1972), The Principles of Insect Physiology (7th Ed). Chapman and
Hall, London
SBL 302: EVOLUTION
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course will enable students devise models of evolutionary processes and carry out predictive
simulations. Students will get to know and appreciate the origin of the different animal groups,
their adaptive equilibria and monitor progress towards genetic/taxonomic extinction of fixation.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students will be able to:
 Explain the theories, mechanisms, processes and types of evolution in the plant and
animal kingdom.
 Relate Natural selection and evolution and the consequences thereof.
Course Contents
Universality of evolution. Genetic basis of organic evolution. Intra-species variation and
polymorphism and their sustenance in populations. Hardy-Weinberg equilibria and conditions
for zero evolution. Random drift, migration, gene flow and mutation pressure. Modes and
coefficients of selection under dominant, co-dominant, sex-linked and multiple allelic systems.
Use of computer models to simulate evolutionary processes. Natural selection and neutralism.
Micro-evolution: isolating mechanisms, population differentiation and speciation. Macroevalution: features, process and consequences. Evolution of major vertebrate taxa including the
fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and primates.
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
Reference
1. Hanson E.D. (1998), Understanding Evolution (3rd Ed). Oxford University Press
2. Futuyama, D. (1996), Evolutionary Biology. Sinauer Associates, New York.
3. Mayr, E. (1986), Evolution and the Diversity of Life. Belknap Press. Harvard.
4. Strickberger. M. (1998), Genetics (4th Ed). Sinauer Associates.
SBL 303: ANATOMY OF ANGIOSPERMS
3 CREDITS
Course Description
The course aims to provide student an in-depth understanding of the biology of higher plants:
concepts of Angiosperm anatomy. Emphasis will be placed on evolution of vascular tissues.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students will be able to:
 Describe different processes of development of tissues and organs.
 Describe the biology of plants.
 Make good permanent slides of various plant sections.
Course Contents
12
Organization of meristems; development of later organs; phyllotaxy. Ecological anatomy;
evolution of vascular tissues; secondary thickening in plants. Preparation of permanent slides;
flower, seed, and root anatomy: cambial activity in monocotyledons; leaf ontogeny.
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
1.
2.
3.
References
Hopkins, W. G. (1999), Introduction to Plant Physiology. 2nd Edition. John Wiley &
Sons.
Ross, C. W. (1974), Plant Physiology Laboratory Manual. Wadsworth Publishing
Company, California
Esau, K. (1991), Plant Anatomy Wiley Eastern Limited.
SBL 304: VERTEBRATE ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended as a follow-up to Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology I. The course
discusses in more details structure and functions vertebrate systems with more emphasis on
control mechanisms.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students will be able to:
 Describe how the various vertebrate body systems function.
 Describe and explain how the various physiological processes are regulated and
controlled.
Course Contents
Structure and function of the gut, digestive enzymes and gastro-intestinal hormones. Respiration
in air and water. Functional adaptation of unique respiratory mechanisms. Structure and function
of the blood, heart, arterial and venous systems. Capillary blood flow. Respiratory pigments.
Lymphatic circulation. Structure and types of kidneys; urinary bladder. Extra-renal glands.
Physiology of excretion and osmo-ionic regulation. Structure of gonads, reproductive ducts and
accessory reproductive glands. Hormonal control of gonads.
Delivery: 15 Lecture Hours + 30 Practical Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
Reference
1. Kent, G.C. (1983), Comparative Anatomy of Vertebrates. Publisher Moshy Year Book
Burkitt, H.G.B. Young, and J.W. Heath (1993), Wheater’s Functional Histology: A Text
and Colour Atlas (3rd Ed). Longman Group Ltd.
2. Schmidt-Nielsen, K. (1997), Animal Phsiology: Adaptation and Environment (5th Ed).
Cambridge University Press. London.
3. Hilderbrand, M. (1982), Analysis of vertebrate body. John Wiley & Sons, New York
4. Campell, N.A., L.G. Mitchell and J.B. Reece (1997), Biology: Concepts and Connections
(2nd Ed.) The Benjamin/Cummings Publishing Company.
13
5.
6.
Hoar, W.S. (1983), General and comparative Physiology (3rd Ed) Prentice-Hall Inc.
Martini, F.H. (1998), Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology (4th Ed.) Prentice Hall
International. Inc.
14
B: CHEMISTRY COURSES
The list of courses for the six semesters is shown below.
Semester Mapping for Chemistry Core Courses
Year Semester Course Code and Title
I
SCH 101: Introduction to Physical Chemistry
1
SCH 102: Organic Chemistry I
II
SCH 103: Chemistry Practicals I
SCH 104: Basic Analytical Chemistry
III
SCH 201: Inorganic Chemistry I
2
SCH 202: Organic Chemistry II
IV
SCH 203: Chemical Thermodynamics
SCH 204: Instrumental Methods in Analytical
Chemistry
SCH 205: Chemistry Practicals II
SCH 301: Chemical Kinetics and
3
V
Electrochemistry
SCH 302: Inorganic Chemistry II
VI
SCH 303: Organic Spectroscopy
SCH 304: Chemistry Practicals III
Credits
2
3
2
2
3
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
Optional Courses
SCH 305: Environmental Analytical Chemistry
SCH 306: Organic Structure, Reactions and Mechanisms
SCH 307: Chemistry of Natural Products
SCH 309: Polymer Chemistry
SCH 309: Fuel Chemistry and Technology
2
2
2
2
2
SCH 101: INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This course will explore the basic principles of physical chemistry including mole concept,
stoichiometry, chemical reactions, chemical equilibrium, properties of gases, solutions, and the
difference between phases of matte. The introduction of chemical kinetics and electrochemistry
will also be covered.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students shall be able to:
 Explain and apply the fundamental concepts of stoichiometry in chemical reactions
 Account for forces that hold compounds together.
 Interpret the differences between the three phases of matter.
 Discuss properties of solutions and do calculations based on the concentrations of a solute
in solution.
 Describe the concepts of chemical kinetics and electrochemistry.
 Perform basic calculations concerning chemical equilibria and electrochemistry.
Course Contents
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Mole concept. Properties of gases, liquids and solids. Properties of solutions: solutions of gases
in liquids, Henry’s law, solution of liquids in liquids. Raoult's law. Binary liquid mixtures, ideal
solutions. Chemical equilibrium. Introduction to: (a) Chemical kinetics (b) Electrochemistry (c)
Atomic structure and chemical bonding: Aufbau principle, Hund's rule, electronic configurations
of elements, stability of half filled and completely filled, orbital shapes of s, p, d and f orbitals, s,
p, d and f block elements.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Petrucci, R.H. (1997), General Chemistry - Principles and modern applications 7th ed.
Prentice-Hall.
2. Zumdahl, S.S. (1995), Chemical Principles 2nd ed. Heath & Company.
3. Barrow, G. M. (1988), Physical Chemistry, 5th ed. McGraw-Hill.
4. Segal, B. (1985), Chemistry – Experiement and Theory, John Wiley and Sons, New York.
5. Peter Atkins and Julio de Paula (2002), Physical Chemistry, 7th Ed., W.H. Freeman and
Company, NY,
SCH 102: BASIC ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course introduces the basic chemical principles in analytical chemistry together with modern
analytical techniques and gives experience in practical analytical chemistry.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students shall be able to:
 Apply basic chemical principles in analytical chemistry.
 Judge the accuracy and precision of experimental data.
 Use a wide range of techniques of modern analytical chemistry.
 Identify qualitatively and quantitatively the products of basic chemical equations.
Course Contents
Qualitative analysis: Stoichiometry, ionic equilibria, pH and buffer solutions. Solubility and
solubility product. Precipitation, complex formation and separation methods. Quantitative
analysis: Gravimetric methods. Volumetric methods: Acid-base titrations, precipitation,
complexometric, redox and potentiometric titrations. Sampling techniques and evaluation of
analytical data: accuracy, precision, causes and estimation of errors.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Petrucci, R.H. (1997), General chemistry - Principles and modern applications 7th ed.
Prentice-Hall.
2. Zumdahl, S.S. (1995), Chemical Principles 2nd ed. Heath & Company.
16
3.
4.
Skoog, West and Holler (1996), Fundamentals of analytical chemistry, 7th ed. Saunders
College Publishing.
Hopkins Harris and Daniel C. Harris (1991), Quantitative Chemical Analysis, 3rd Ed., W.H.
Freeman and Company, New York.
SCH 103: ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I
3 CREDITS
Course Description
The course introduces basic terms and concepts used in organic chemistry: IUPAC rules used to
name organic compounds; simple reactions and their mechanisms; preparation and synthesis of
simple organic compounds using functional group approach.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students shall be able to:
 Define organic chemistry and outline its importance.
 Explain bonding in organic compounds.
 Distinguish between different conformations of organic molecules.
 Define terms/concepts used in organic chemistry.
 Use IUPAC rules to name organic compounds.
 Explain functional group chemistry and relate to organic reactions.
 Write complete organic reactions and their mechanisms.
Course Contents
Main features of carbon compounds. Basic concepts of bonding in organic chemistry.
Hybridisation and geometry of molecules, structure and physical properties of carbon
compounds; distribution of charges of electrons in bonds, inductive effects and dipole moments;
IUPAC rules for nomenclature of organic compounds; detailed study of: alkanes conformational analysis of ethane, n-butane and conformers of cyclohexane, mechanism of free
radical substitution in alkanes; alkenes - geometrical isomerism; cis-trans, syn-anti and E-Z
notations, geometrical isomerism in maleic and fumaric acids, preparation of alkenes; addition
reactions in alkenes; alkynes - preparation and properties, acidity of alkynes, formation of
acetylides, addition of water with HgSO4 catalyst, other addition reactions in alkynes; alkyl
halides; alcohols and ethers; aldehydes and ketones; carboxylic acids; amines; benzene –
properties of benzene, Huckel's (4n+2) rule and its simple applications, general mechanism of
electophilic substitution reactions in aromatic compounds.
Delivery: 45 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Morrison, R.T. and Boyd, R.N. (1987), Organic Chemistry.5th edition. Allyn and Bacon,
Inc. Boston.
2. Graham Solomon T.W. (2006), Organic Chemistry.8th edition. John Wiley & Sons Inc.
3. Paula Yurkanis Bruice (2006), Organic Chemistry Prentice Hall,.
4. John E. McMurry (2007), Organic Chemistry 7th Ed., Cengage Learning,
17
SCH 103: CHEMISTRY PRACTICALS I
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended for students to develop skills to apply the theoretical knowledge from the
lectures in carrying out laboratory experiments. Students will be able to use laboratory manuals
and books to perform the experiments.
Course Objective
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Demonstrate manipulative skills required to handle scientific equipment and tools.
 Explain the qualities required for care of equipment and chemicals in the laboratory.
 Carry out simple organic reactions and separate organic mixtures.
 Accurately make observations, record and keep experimental data.
 Interpret and make inferences using the available data.
 Use modern technology to analyze scientific data.
Course Contents
A set of experiments based on the following topics: Common laboratory techniques, Preparation
of a standard solution, reaction kinetics, Gravimetric analysis including determination of water of
hydration. Properties of acids, bases and salts in aqueous solution; pH and solubility.
Precipitation reactions in chemical analysis. Complexes. Complexometry and redox titrations.
Properties of gases. Potentiometric acid-base titrations. Also experiments based on separation
techniques (Extraction, Chromatoghraphy, Distillation, partition) and simple organic chemical
reactions.
Delivery: 60 Practical Hours
Assessment: Laboratory reports 100%.
References
1. T. Forland, G. Ndaalio and K. S. Forland (1980), Practicals in Physical Chemistry, University
of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
2. Errington, R. J. (1997), Advanced Practical Inorganic and Metalorganic Chemistry, Blackie
Academic and Professional, London.
3. Revised by J. Bassett, R. C. Denney, G. H. Jeffery and J. Mendham (1983), Vogel’s Textbook
of quantitative Inorganic analysis, 4th Ed., Longman, London,.
SCH 104:
CHEMISTRY FOR LIFE SCIENCES STUDENTS
3 CREDITS
Objectives:
By the end of the course the students are expected to be able to:
1.1_ Apply fundamental chemical principles to solve problems related to Life Sciences.
Content:
General Chemistry: Stoichiometry and mole concept. Atomic structure and chemical bonding.
Ionic equilibria including pH and buffer solutions, acid-base titration and solubility equilibria.
Nuclear radiation and its effects on matter. Introduction to colloidal systems. Practicals based on
the above topics.
18
Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry: Principles of chemical reactivity. Important functional
groups in organic molecules. Introduction to stereochemistry. Carbohydrates, lipids, protein and
nucleic acids. Enzymes. Bioenergetics. Practicals based on the above topics.
Delivery: 40 lectures + 6 sessions of 3-hours practicals.
Assessment: Tests: 30, Practicals: 20%, Final Examination 50%.
Textbooks:
1. Theodore L. Brown and H. Eugune LeMay Jr. Chemistry: The Central Science, PrenticeHall, 7th Ed. 1997.
2. McMurry, J.; Castallion, M. and Ballantine, D., Fundamentals of General, Organic, and
Biological Chemistry, 5th Ed. 2006.
References
1. Petrucci, R.H. General Chemistry - Principles and Modern Applications 7th ed. Prentice-Hall,
1997.
2. Zumdahl, S.S. Chemical Principles 4th ed. Heath & Company, 2002.
SCH 201: CHEMICAL THERMODYNAMICS
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This course introduces students to the terminologies used in thermodynamics, laws of
thermodynamics and thermodynamic treatment of solutions and phase equilibrium.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Predict chemical processes based on thermodynamic principles
 Relate the properties of a system to the energy transfers within individual particles.
 Apply the Laws of Thermodynamics on a molecular level.
Course Contents
Energy, intensive and extensive state functions, the first law of thermodynamics statement and the
equation Cp, Cv relationship, calculation of w, q, U and H for the expansion of ideal gases under
reversible, isothermal and adiabatic conditions. Entropy and the second and the third laws of
thermodynamics. Free energy and chemical equilibria. Thermodynamic treatment of solutions and
Phase equilibria.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
19
References
1. Forland, K.S. and Forland, T. (1991), Chemical Thermodynamics, University of Dar es
Salaam, Tanzania.
2. Barrow, G. M. (1988), Physical Chemistry 5th ed. McGraw-Hill.
3. Atkins, P. W. (1998), Physical Chemistry.6th ed. ELBS/Oxford Univ. press,
4. Petrucci, R.H. (1997), General Chemistry - Principles and modern applications 7th ed.
Prentice-Hall
5. Zumdahl, S.S. (1995), Chemical Principles 2nd ed. Heath & Company
6. Chang, Raymond (2007), Chemistry, 9th ed., McGrawHill Educational, New York.
7. Peter Atkins and Julio de Paula (2002), Physical Chemistry, 7th Ed., W.H. Freeman and
Company, NY.
SCH 202: INORGANIC CHEMISTRY I
3 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended to introduce to undergraduate students the basic inorganic chemistry and
properties of inorganic compound, atomic structures, elements in groups and the chemistry of
transition elements.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course, students shall be able to:
 Describe the terms used in basic inorganic chemistry.
 Explain the trends in Ionization energy, Electron affinity and atomic radii in the Periodic
Table.
 Use bonding theories to explain properties of inorganic compounds.
 Qualitatively explain the structure of atoms and molecules.
 Describe the chemistry of elements and trends of their behavior in groups.
 Describe the chemistry of Transition elements.
Course Contents
Electrons in atoms, the shape and energy of s, p and d atomic orbitals. Electronic configurations
of atoms, the periodic table and periodic trends. Ionization energy, electron affinity and Hund’s
rule. Isotopes. Electrons in molecules;. Types of bonds: metallic, ionic, polar, covalent and
hydrogen bonds, bond strength. Valence Shell Electron repulsion theory. Molecular Orbital
theory, bonding and antibonding orbitals, first and second row homonuclear diatomics, hybrid
orbitals. Periodic properties of elements; atomic radii, ionic radii. ionisation potential, electron
affinity and electronegativity, inert-pair effect and diagonal relationship with examples. The
representative elements: Groups I -VII and O. Group characteristics and comparative study of the
groups. Introduction to transition metal chemistry.
Delivery: 45 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
20
References
1. Rayner-Canham, G. (1995), Descriptive Inorganic Chemistry, W.H. Freeman and
Company, NY.
2. Shriver, D. F., Atkins, P. W. and Lanford, C. H. (1994), Inorganic Chemistry 2 nd Ed.
ELSB,
3. Cotton, F. and Wilkinson, G. (1999), Advanced Inorganic Chemistry, 6th Ed., Wiley-Interscience.
4. Earnshaw, A. and Norman Greenwood (1997), Chemistry of the Elements, 2nd Ed.,
Butterworth-Heinemann.
5. Nicholls, D. (1995), Complexes and First row Transition metals, MacMillan London.
6. Sharpe, A.G. (1992), Inorganic Chemistry, Longman Publishing Group.
7. Cotton, F.A. (1995), Basic Inorganic Chemistry, Wiley, John & Sons.
SCH 203: ORGANIC CHEMISTRY II
3 CREDITS
Course Description
This course introduces students to the stereochemistry and concepts applied in stereochemistry,
the configurations of organic molecules using R/S and D/L systems, reaction mechanisms and
chemistry aromatic compounds.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Describe stereochemistry terms used in stereochemistry.
 Assign the configurations of organic molecules using R/S; D/L systems.
 Predict the stereochemical outcome of asymmetric reactions.
 Demonstrate that benzene is more activated towards EAS reactions.
 Predict and write equations of EAS reactions with clear mechanisms.
 Design synthesis of complex aromatic compounds from simple ones.
Course Contents
Stereochemistry and stereoisomers, isomer and tetrahedral carbon, optical activity, specific
rotation, enantiomerism, chirality, configuration, absolute configuration (R/S rules),
diastereomers, meso structure, reactions involving stereoisomers, racemic mixtures, alicyclic
chemistry, reaction mechanisms, electrophilic and nucleophilic substitutions, carbocation
rearrangements, elimination and addition reactions, carbanions, oxidation and reduction
reactions, aromaticity and aromatic compounds, aromatic substitutions, free radicals, carbenes,
nitrenes.
Delivery: 45 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1.
Morrison, R.T. and Boyd, R.N. (1987), Organic Chemistry.5th edition. Allyn and Bacon,
Inc. Boston.
2.
Mark G. Loudon (1995), Organic Chemistry, The Benjamin/Cummings Publishing
Company, Inc.
3.
Graham T.W. Solomon (1997), Organic Chemistry.6th edition. John Wiley & Sons Inc..
21
4.
Finar, I.L. (1989), Organic Chemistry, 5th Edition, Vol. I & II. Longman Scientific and
Technical.
SCH 204: INSTRUMENTAL METHODS IN ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY 2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course covers the modern instrumental methods including electrochemical, optical
spectroscopic methods together with X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis and Chromatography.
The sampling techniques and analytical data evaluation will also be covered.
Course Objective
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Describe modern analytical instruments.
 Apply basic techniques and instruments in data acquisition and analysis.
Course Contents
Description of modern instrumental methods including: Electrochemical methods: polarography,
ion selective potentiometry and voltammetry, Optical spectroscopic methods such as UV visible,
infrared absorbance and atomic absorption. X-ray diffraction and fluorescence. Thermal analysis.
Chromatography. Sampling techniques and evaluation of analytical data.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Skoog, D. A., Holler, F. J. and Nieman, T. A. (1992), Principles of Instrumental analysis.5th
Ed. Saunders College Publishing.
2. Taylor, R., Papp, R.B. and Pollard, B.D. (1994), Instrumental Methods for Determining
Elements: Selection and Application, Wiley-VCH.
3. Ahuja, S. and Jespersen, N. (2006), Modern instrumental analysis Vol. 47 (Comprehensive
Analytical Chemistry).Elsevier Science.
SCH 205: CHEMISTRY PRACTICALS II
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended as a platform for students to apply knowledge acquired during lectures in
carrying out laboratory experiments. Students will be able to use laboratory manuals and books
to perform their experiments.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Carry out simple two steps organic synthesis, identify unknown compounds and perform
quantitative analysis.
 Prepare and analyze inorganic complexes.
 Accurately make observations, record and keep experimental data.
22

Interpret and make inferences using the available data.
Course Contents
A set of experiments based on the following topics: Synthesis (two step reaction), identification of
unknown organic compounds, quantitative organic analysis; Preparative inorganic chemistry.
Preparation of complexes and study of their chemical properties. Constitution of complexes.
Qualitative inorganic analysis. Class separation of ions and their identification based on chemical
properties (solubility, generation of gaseous products, colour reactions) Chemical analysis of
complex materials; Partial molal volumes, liquid vapour equilibrium, colligative properties of
solutions, Potentiometric determination of equilibrium constants. Boiling point composition
diagram for binary solutions. Potentiometric titration of complex ions.
Delivery: 60 Practical Hours
Assessment: Laboratory reports 100%.
Reference
1. Forland, T., Ndaalio, G. and Forland, K. S. (1980), Practicals in Physical Chemistry,
Chemistry Department,University of Dar es Salaam.
2. Pavia, D. L., Lampman, G. M., Kriz, G. S., Engel, R. G. (1995), Introduction to Organic
Laboratory Techniques: A Microscale and Macro Scale Approach, W.B.Saunders.
3. Furniss, B. S. Et al, (1984), Vogel’s Textbook of Practical Organic Chemistry, Longman
SCH 301: CHEMICAL KINETICS AND ELECTROCHEMISTRY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is aimed at covering in details the basis of chemical reactions, rates laws and their
determination. In depth treatment of electrochemistry and its applications will also be covered.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course, students are expected to be able to:
 Describe the basic concepts of chemical kinetics and electrochemistry,
 Explain and account for the experimental techniques used in following the rates of
chemical reactions
 Explain reversible electrodes and electrochemical cells
 Analyze kinetic data and evaluate the observed rate laws.
 Formulate plausible mechanisms of such reactions.
Course Contents
Kinetics theory of gases, Distribution of velocities, Collision cross section. Collision frequency,
Mean free Path. Rate laws and their determination, Temperature dependence of reaction rates,
Arrhenius Equation, activation energies, elementary collision theory. Rates of reactions. Order
and molecularity. Experimental measurement of reaction rates (Differential method and integral
method of analysis. Method of initial rates. Method of half-lives.), Accounting for the rate laws,
Elementary reactions, pre-equilibrium, the steady state approximation: applications to
unimolecular reactions (Lindemann), Kinetic isotope effect, Chain reactions and explosions,
23
processes at solid surfaces i.e adsorption and desorption, rates of surface processes, Catalysis
(homogeneous, heterogeneous and autocatalysis, enzyme catalysis) and the kinetics of
photochemical processes. Electrochemical potential and electrochemical cells-review of concepts
and definitions, the Nernst equation, standard electrode potential, Electrolytes in solutions, The
Debye – Huckel theory of interionic interaction and ionic activity coefficients.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
References
1. Atkins, P. and de Paula, J. (2002) Physical Chemistry, Oxford University Press, 7th Ed.,
London.
2. Logan, S. R (1996), Fundamentals of Chemical Kinetics, Longman, Harlow.
3. Boudart, M. (1991), Kinetics of Chemical processes, Butterworth, London.
4. Wright, M.R. (2004), Introduction to chemical kinetics, John Wiley and Sons Inc, NY.
CHM 302: INORGANIC CHEMISTRY II
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course introduces the basic concepts in coordination chemistry including bonding and
stereochemistry of coordination compounds and their properties.
Course Objective
At the end of the course student should be able to:
 Describe the basic concepts of coordination chemistry and their application.
 Describe the properties and reactions of coordination compounds.
 Compare and relate structure and properties of inorganic complexes.
Course Contents
Introduction to coordination chemistry. Constitution and stereochemistry of coordination
compounds. Hybridization and coordination numbers. Bonding in coordination compounds.
Thermodynamic and kinetic stabilities of coordination compounds and their properties related to
bonding. Chemical reaction of coordination compounds.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
References
1. Nicholls, D. (1995), Complexes and First row Transition metals, McMillan London.
2. Cotton and Wilkinson (1980), Advanced Inorganic Chemistry 4th ed., J. Wiley & Sons.
3. Sharpe, A.G. (1992), Inorganic Chemistry, Longman Publishing Group,.
24
CHM 303: ORGANIC SPECTROSCOPY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is aimed at introducing students to basic organic spectroscopic methods for structure
determination of organic compounds. Basic theory of each method will be treated and applied to
solving structure problems.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course student should be able to:
 Describe the basic principles of spectroscopic methods used in organic chemistry.
 Apply the spectroscopic techniques to elucidate structures of organic compounds.
 Determine the structure of an unknown from its spectral data.
Course Contents
Structure determination of organic compounds using: UV-Visible. IR spectroscopy: Proton and
Carbon 13 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance: principle of nuclear magnetic resonance, basic
instrumentation, shielding mechanism, chemical shift, number of signals, splitting of signals, spinspin coupling and coupling constants, NMR spectra of simple organic compounds. Mass
spectrophotometry: basic principles of mass spectrum, molecular peak, base peak isotopic peak,
metastable peak, their uses, fragmentation, nitrogen rule, determination of molecular formulae with
examples, mass spectrum of simple organic.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
References
1. Breitmaier, E. (1995), Structure elucidation by NMR in Organic Chemistry. John Wiley
and Sons, New York.
2. Silverstein, R. M., Bassler, G. C. and Morill, T. C. (1991), Spectroscopic Identification of
Organic Compounds, 5th ed. John Wiley and Sons, New York.
3. Dudley, H. Williams and Ian Fleming (1989), Spectroscopic Methods in Organic
Chemistry. 4th edition. McGraw-Hill Book Company. London,.
4. Donald, l. Pavia, Gary M. Lampman, George S. Kriz. Saunders (1996), Introduction to
Spectroscopy, Golden Sunburst Series, New York.
SCHE 304: CHEMISTRY PRACTICALS III
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended for students to develop skills to apply the theoretical knowledge from the
lectures in carrying out laboratory experiments. Students will be able to use laboratory manuals
and books to perform the experiments.
25
Course Objectives
At the end of the course, students are expected to be able to:
 Apply basic chemical techniques and methods in applied chemical experiments.
 Carry out multistep synthesis of complex organic molecules.
 Illustrate some aspects of chemistry as given in the lectures.
Course Contents
A set of experiments based on the following topics: Common laboratory techniques in applied
chemistry, chemical separations, modern separation methods including ion-exchange, IR and atomic
spectroscopy, potentiometry, multistep organic synthesis, computer applications in chemistry,
polarography and voltammetry and kinetics. Determination of the charge of complex ion. Factors
affecting the stability of complexes. Identification of complex species by spectrophotometry and
experiments involving either more difficult separations or illustrating more advanced chemical
principles especially with respect to stereochemistry and reaction mechanisms.
Delivery: 60 Practical Hours
Assessment: Laboratory reports 100%.
References
1. Departmental Laboratory manuals.
2. D.T. Sawyer, W.R. Heinemann and J.M. Beebe, 1984 Chemistry Experiments for
Instrumental Methods, John Wiley and Sons Inc, N.Y..
SCH 305: ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This course introduces students to the methods of studying and monitoring chemical pollution of
the environment.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course, students are expected to be able to:
 Describe standard environmental analytical techniques.
 Plan the chemical analysis of an environmental problem.
 Plan methods of remediation of environmental pollution.
Course Contents
A theoretical discussion of the various stages in an analytical procedure: Problem formulation and
planning, Sampling strategies, Sample manipulation, conservation, storage and work-up, (Extraction,
clean-up, preconcentration, derivatization). Instrumental analysis, Data evaluation and method
validation. Methods for the determination of ultra-trace concentrations of inorganic, organometallic
and organic compounds in air, soil, water, sediment and biota. Groupwise mini-projects (where
practical experience of problem formulation, experimental design, sampling and data evaluation is
obtained) will be done and reports assessed.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
26
References
1. Fifield, F.W.; Haines, P.J., (2000), Environmental Analytical Chemistry, 2nd ed. Blackwell
Science.
2. Radojeric, M.; Bashkin, V., (1999), Practical Environmental Analysis, Royal Society of
Chemistry, London.
3. Swartz, M. E.; I.S. Krull, I. S., (1997), Analytical Methods Development and validation.
CRC
4. Baird, C. (1999), Environmental Chemistry, W.H. Freeman.
5. Manahan, S. E. (2004), Environmental Chemistry, 8th edition CRC.
6. Manahan, S. E. (2000), Fundamentals of Environmental Chemistry, 2nd edition CRC.
SCH 306: ORGANIC STRUCTURE, REACTIONS AND MECHANISMS
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended to introduce students to the fundamental relationships between structure
and reactivity of organic compounds. A mechanistic approach to explain reactions will be
emphasized.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course, students are expected to be able to:
 Describe basic concepts of organic reactions and reaction mechanisms.
 Relate structure of organic compound to its reactivity.
 Predict the site of reaction in a given organic molecule.
 Account for formation/non formation of products in a given reaction.
 Design and carry out organic reactions.
Course Contents
Structure of organic compounds (molecular connectivity and molecular geometry), Electrophilic
and nucleophilic substitutions, molecular rearrangement, elimination and addition reactions,
oxidation and reduction reactions; Specificic organic reactions: Carbanion I (Acidity of
hydrogens, Aldol, Claisen and Crossed Claisen condensation.Tautomerism, Dieckmann and
Reformatsky reactions. Carbanion II (Malonic ester and aceto-acetic ester synthesis,
polyfunctional compounds; Polynuclear aromatics, Michael addition reactions.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Carey, F. A.; Sundberg, R.J. (1991), Advanced Organic Chemistry Part A & B, 3th ed.
Plenum Press, N. Y.
2. March, J. (1992), Advanced Organic Chemistry, 4th ed. John Wiley &Sons, N. Y.
3. Norman, R. O. C.; Coxon, J. M. (1995), Principles of Organic Synthesis, 3rd ed. Blackie
Academic & Professional, London.
SCH 307: CHEMISTRY OF NATURAL PRODUCTS
Course Description
27
2 CREDITS
The course is intended to introduce the chemistry of natural products and its economic
importance. The chemistry of major classes of natural products will be discussed emphasizing on
biosynthetic pathways.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
 Classify natural products based on their structures.
 Describe the biosynthesis of major classes of natural products.
 Use a variety of techniques to isolate and determine structure of organic compounds.
Course Contents
Metabolites, Classification of natural products, principal biosynthetic pathways: mevalonic acid,
shikimic acid and polyketide pathways, Isolation of some natural products using different
chromatographic techniques, structural determination of natural products using spectroscopic
techniques UV, IR, NMR, 2D-NMR, MS, NOE.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Torsell, K. B.G. (1983), Natural Product Chemistry, Wiley &Sons, NY
2. Williams, D. H.; Fleming, I. (1989), Spectroscopic Methods in Organic Chemistry, 4 th
edition. McGraw-Hill Book Company. London.
3. Donald l. Pavia, D. I.; Lampman, G. M.; Kriz, G. S. (1996), Introduction to Spectroscopy.
Saunders Golden Sunburst Series, New York.
SCH 308: POLYMER CHEMISTRY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended to expose students to the theory of the science of both natural and
synthetic polymers and their economic importance.
Course Objectives
At the course students should be able to:
 Give basic descriptions of concepts in polymer chemistry.
 Illustrate properties of polymers and relate them to the usage of polymers.
Course Contents
Types and nature of polymers, addition and condensation polymers, copolymers. Polymer
characterization: degree of polymerization. Determination of average molar mass and polymer
molar mass distribution. Techniques of polymerization: Bulk-, Emulsion, Suspension and
Solution polymerization. Mechanism and kinetics of chain and step polymerizations. Polymer
solubility. Mechanical/physical behaviour of polymers. Application of polymers as: fibres,
plastics, rubber, resins/adhesives and thermosets. Polymer degradation and stabilization,
biodegradation and recycling of plastics.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
28
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
References
1. Billmeyer, F. W. (1984), Textbook of Polymer Science 3rd ed. J. Wiley & Sons, NY
2. Odian, G. (1991), Principles of Polymerization, J. Wiley & Sons, NY
3. Hiemenz, P. C.; Lodge, P. (2007), Polymer Chemistry, 2nd Edition. CRC.
SCH 309: FUEL CHEMISTRY AND TECHNOLOGY
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course gives a basic treatment of fuels and fuel science. The processing, properties and use of
both natural and synthetic fuels is discussed.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:



Describe fuels, their composition and properties.
Determine quality of fuels.
Device safety and pollution control methods.
Course Contents
Natural fuels, origin and reserves. Chemical composition, combustion properties and classification
of coals. Coal fields and coal resources in Tanzania. Liquid and gaseous fuels. Refining,
composition and properties of synthetic fuels. Elements of fuel technology, heat balance, safety and
antipollution methods.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 50%, Final Examination 50%.
References
1. Berkonwitz, N. (1998), Fossil Hydrocarbons: Chemistry and Technology, Academic
Press., San Diego, CA.
2. Schobert, H. H., (1995), The Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Fuels. Butterworth-Heinemann
Ltd.
29
C. PHYSICS COURSES
The list of courses for the six semesters is shown below.
Semester Mapping for Physics Core Courses
Year
Semester
Course Code and Title
I
PHY 100: Classical Mechanic
I
PHY 103: Practicals I
II
PHY 102: Electromagnetism
PHY 101: Vibrations, Waves and Optics
I
PHY 200: Quantum Mechanics
II
PHY 202: Practicals II
II
PHY 201: Statistical Thermodynamics
PHY 300: Fundamentals of Materials Science
III
I
PHY 304: Practicals III
PHY 303: Electronics
II
PHY 301: Fundamentals of Electrodynamics
PHY 302: Solid State Physics
Optional Courses
PHY 203: Advanced Mechanics
PHY 204: Mathematical Methods of Physics
PHY 205: Computational Physics
PHY 305: Fundamentals of Atmospheric Physics
PHY 307: Physics Project
PHY 306: Energy in the Environment
PHY 309: Elementary Particles
PHY 308: Physics of the Atom
Credit
3
2
2
3
3
2
3
3
2
2
3
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
SPH 100: CLASSICAL MECHANICS
3 CREDITS
Course description
This is a first year course aimed at upgrading the students understanding of the basic principles
of classical mechanics. Mathematical derivations of basic laws from first principles will be
emphasised.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Solve and determine the dynamical behaviour of discreet mechanical systems.
 Apply Newton’s Laws and the Lagrangian method.
 Apply the laws governing the conservation of energy; momentum; and angular
momentum.
Course Contents
Newtonian Mechanics; Vectors algebra and applications; Single particle dynamics; Conservation
Laws; Gravitation and Kepler’s laws. Introduction to Lagrangian Mechanics: Calculus of
Variations; Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics; Central force motion; Motion in a noninertial reference frame; Systems of Particles; Coordinate rotation and matrices; Rigid bodies.
Delivery: 45 Contact Hours
30
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Textbooks:
1. Fowler G. R., (1995) Analytical Mechanics, 5th Edition, Saunders College Publishing,
References:
2. Halliday D, Resnick R. and Krane K.S., (1992) Physics Vol I, John Wiley & Sons.
3. Nolan J.P., (1993) Fundamentals of College Physics. W C. Brown, New York.
4. Marion, J. and Thornton, S. (1995) Classical Dynamics of Particles and Systems, Holt
Rinehart & Winston, London..
SPH 101: VIBRATIONS, WAVES AND OPTICS
3 CREDITS
Course Description
This is a first year course intended to extend the knowledge acquired at advanced level
pertaining to wave motion.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Explain the basic principles of wave motion, vibration and oscillations.
 Apply Newton’s laws to formulate the physical problems for free, forced, damped and
coupled oscillations;
 Make the correlations between mechanical and electrical oscillations;
 Apply the concept of oscillations and waves in practical situations.
Course Contents
Oscillations: simple and damped harmonic motion; coupled oscillations; forced oscillations and
resonance. Wave motion: The wave equation and its solutions; phase velocity and group
velocity; Theoretical description of plane and spherical waves; Doppler effect; Ultrasonic and
infrasonic sounds and their applications. Optics: Light sources and detectors; Snell’s law;
Fermat’s principle, total internal reflection, Spherical mirrors and refracting surfaces, lens
aberration. Interference; Young’s double slits, Newton’s rings, Michelson and Fabry-Perot
interferometers; Diffraction: Fresnel- and Fraunhoffer-type diffraction; Diffraction gratings;
Polarization; Holography, Elements of quantum optics.
Delivery: 45 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Textbooks
1. Pain H.J., (1999) The Physics of Vibration and Waves, Fifth Ed., Wiley, New York.
2. Jenkins, F.A. and White, H.E., (1976) Fundamentals of Optics, McGraw-Hill, Auckland.
References:
3. Halliday D, Resnick R, Krane K.S., (1992) Physics, Vols I & II, John Wiley & Sons,
London.
4. Bajaj N.K., (1998) The Physics of waves and oscillations. Tata McGraw-Hill, New York.
5. French A.P., (1990) Vibrations and Waves. Chapman & Hall, London.
6. George H., (1992) The Physics of Waves, Prentice Hall, New Jersey.
7. Hecht, E., (1998) Optics, 3rd Ed., Addison–Wesley, London.
31
8. Young, H.D. and Freedman, R.A., (2000). University Physics With Modern Physics, 10th
Ed., Longman HE, London.
9. Tipler, P.A., (1998) Physics for Scientists & Engineers, Worth, New York.
10. Saleh B. E. A. and Teich, M. C., (1991) Fundamentals of Photonics, Wiley, New York.
SPH 102: ELECTROMAGNETISM
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This is a first year course giving students an understanding of the behaviour of electromagnetic
waves and to apply vector calculus in advanced treatment of electromagnetic phenomenon.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Explain the concept and structure of the electric field;
 Represent electromagnetic field phenomena mathematically for different situations;
 Analyze and solve various electric circuit problems;
 Explain electromagnetic induction and its applications;
 Understand the behaviour of EM waves in different media and at interfaces.
 Apply Maxwell’s equations in solving practical problems
Course Contents
Electric charge, Coulomb’s law, Electric field, Gauss’ law, electric potential and capacitance;
Current electricity, DC circuits, Kirchhoff’s laws and transients. Magnetic fields, Ampere’s and
Faradays laws, force on a moving charge, Lorentz law. Electromagnetic (EM) field, inductance
and ac circuits. Electric and magnetic vectors: electrostatics and magnetostatics as examples of
zero curl. Dielectric materials, media; Reflection and refraction at an interface (Fresnel’s
equations) scattering of electromagnetic waves; waveguides. Applications of EM waves and
radiation antenna.
Delivery:
30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Textbooks
1. Halliday D, Resnick R, Krane K.S., (1992) Physics, Vols I & II, John Wiley & Sons,
London.
2. Lorrain P. and Corson D. R., (1970) Electromagnetic Fields and Waves, 2 nd Edition, W.
H. Freeman and Company.
Reference
3. Nolan J.P., (1993) Fundamentals of College Physics. W C. Brown, New York.
SPH 103: PRACTICALS 1
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This is a first year physics course intended to give students the basic principles in data
management, including data collection, treatment and analysis of results. Emphasis should be on
the scientific approach in data processing.
32
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Measure correctly the basic physical quantities of mass, length, time and current.
 Determine errors in measurements.
 Analyze raw data and make valid conclusions.
 Validate corresponding theoretical components.
Course Contents
A selection of physics experiments chosen to consolidate and extend the student’s understanding
of the lecture courses and to emphasize the experimental basis of physics. Emphasis is placed on
measuring skills, data handling and treatment of errors in experimental measurement.
Delivery: 60 Practical Hours
Assessment: Laboratory reports 100%.
References:
1. Laboratory manual/experiment sheets and relevant textbooks.
SPH 200: QUANTUM MECHANICS
3 CREDITS
Course Description
This course is intended to give students skills in the application of principles of quantum
mechanics in solving physical problems;
Course Objectives
At the end of the course a student should be able to:
 Explain the failures of classical physics and the origin of the quantum theory.
 Relate Bohr theory to the de Broglie hypothesis.
 Interpret and apply the wave function to simple quantum mechanical systems.
 Explain the theoretical framework of quantum mechanics;
 Describe the basics of relativistic quantum mechanics.
Course Contents
Experimental basis for quantum mechanics; wave-packets; uncertainty principle. Hilbert space
formalism. Schrödinger equation: eigenvalues and eigenvectors: applications to 1-D problems
including the infinite and finite potential wells and the harmonic oscillator, tunneling and time
independent perturbation theory. Angular momentum and spin operators. Operator methods in
quantum mechanics. Coupling of spin and angular momenta. Variational principles and elements
of time dependent perturbation theory (the Golden Rule). Solution of the Schrödinger equation in
three dimensions. Applications to the hydrogen and helium atoms and to simple problems in
atomic and molecular physics. Introduction to relativistic quantum mechanics.
Delivery: 45 Contact Hours.
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%
33
Textbooks:
1. Liboff, R., (1997) Introductory Quantum Mechanics, Addison Wesley, London.
2. Eisberg R. and Resnick, R., (1985) Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei
and Particles, 2nd Edition, John Wiley, New York.
3. Anderson, E. E., (1971) Modern Physics and Quantum Mechanics; W.B. Sounders.
References:
4. Kiwanga, C. A., (2001).Quantum Mechanics, The Open University of Tanzania, Dar es
Salaam.
5. Beiser A., (1995).Concepts of Modern Physics, 6th Edition, McGraw-Hill, London.
6. Haken, H. and Wolf, H. C., (2000) Physics of Atoms and Quanta, Springer, 6th Ed.,
Amsterdam.
7. Basdevant, J. L. and Dalibard, J., (2000) Quantum Mechanics Solver: How to Apply
Quantum Theory to Modern Physics. Springer-Verlag, Berlin.
SPH 201: STATISTICAL THERMODYNAMICS
3 CREDITS
Course Description
This course is intended to give students an understanding and application of statistical principles
in solving physical phenomena.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Demonstrate understanding of the basic concepts of statistical mechanics and
thermodynamics.
 Apply statistical mechanics and thermodynamics concepts to a variety of physical
phenomena.
Course Contents
Specification of state of a system; Equation of state, principle of equal a priori probabilities;
reversibility and irreversibility; density of states. Thermal interaction between macroscopic
systems, the zeroeth law, specific heat capacities, isothermal and adiabatic processes, Heat and
work: Macrostates and microstates, microscopic interpretation of work, quasi-static processes,
exact and inexact differentials, first law of thermodynamics. Entropy and the second law of
thermodynamics heat engine and refrigerators, thermodynamic potentials. Applications of
statistical thermodynamics to a variety of physical phenomena. Fermions and Bosons distribution
functions, density of states, classical limit, Maxwell distribution of velocities, Einstein
condensation.
Delivery: 45 Contact Hours.
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Textbook
1. Ashley, H. C. (2001), Classical and Statistical Thermodynamics, Prentice Hall, London.
References:
2. David, S. B. and Roy E. T. (1993), Introductory Statistical Mechanics, Addison-Wesley,
New York.
3. Schroeder, D. V. (2000), An Introduction to Thermal Physics, Addison-Wesley, New York.
4. Baierlein, R. (1999) Thermal Physics, Cambridge University Press.
34
SPH 202: PRACTICALS II
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This is a practical course intended to give students advanced skills in data handling and scientific
report writing.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Translate theory into experimental set-up.
 Write standard scientific report.
 Relate experimental results with corresponding theoretical courses.
Course Contents
A selection of advanced physics experiments chosen to consolidate and extend the student’s
understanding of the lecture courses and to emphasize the experimental basis of physics. To
advance students skills in data handling, treatment of errors in experimental measurement and
scientific report writing.
Delivery: 60 Practical Hours
Assessment: Laboratory reports 100%.
References:
1. Laboratory manual/experiment sheets and relevant textbooks.
SPH 203: ADVANCED MECHANICS
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This is a course that consolidates the knowledge acquired in the CLASSICAL MECHANICS
course; in this course students will acquire skills in solving more advanced problems in
Mechanics.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the students should be able to:
 Apply the Lagrangian method;
 Explain the basic principles of special relativity.
Course Contents
Vectors and coordinate transformation, conservative forces and the potential energy function,
non-inertial reference frames, central forces and the motion of planets, Lagrangian mechanics;
Special Relativity: Relativistic kinematics, space-time and relativistic dynamics
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours.
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Textbook
1. Goldstein, H., (1980) Classical Mechanics, 2nd Ed., Addison-Wesley Publishing Company
Inc., London.
35
References:
2. Fowler, G. R, (1995) Analytical Mechanics, 5th Ed., Saunders College Publishing.
3. Murray R. S., (1967) Theoretical Mechanics, Schaum’s Outline series in Science, McGrawHill, New York.
4. Pauli, W., (1981) Theory of Relativity, Dover Publications Inc , New York.
SPH 204: MATHEMATICAL METHODS OF PHYSICS
2 CREDITS
Course description
The course is designed to give students skills in solving differential and integral equations in
describing physical systems.
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course the student should be able to:
 Express a physical system in terms of different coordinate systems
 Apply various mathematical techniques in solving various physical systems
Course Contents
Coordinate systems: Cartesian, spherical, polar, circular, cylindrical. Vector calculus, gradient,
divergence, curl, integration, Gauss and Stoke's theorems; partial differential equations, Laplace
equations, Poisson's equation, the diffusion equation, the wave equation-separation of variables,
series solution, matrices, determinants, orthogonal, hermitian and unitary matrices,
diagonalization of matrices. Partial differential equations; Fourier series; Boundary value
problem of Sturnm and Liouville; Legendre equations and polynomials; Series solution of
important differential equations, Bessel equation and functions; Fourier Integral and transform,
Laplace transform. Applications to physical problems.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Textbooks:
1. Arfken, G., (1966) Mathematical Methods of Physics, Academy Press, London.
2. Kreyzig, E., (1988) Advanced Engineering Mathematics, 6th Edition, John Willey & Sons,
New Jersey.
References:
3. Boas, M. L., (1983) Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences, 2nd Ed., John Willey &
Sons, New York.
SPH 205: COMPUTATIONAL PHYSICS
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This course is intended to give students skills in the application of programming packages in
effective data handling and computational.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Effectively use programming packages like MATLAB
36


Create simple computer programs using standard language (C or Fortran);
Solve various algebraic, ordinary differential, and partial differential equations by
employing various numerical methods and
Course Contents
Computer programming essentials: An overview. Computational techniques including: root
finding using the Newton-Raphson method; Interpolation using the least squares fitting, Solving
ordinary differential equations using the Runge-Kutta method and partial differential equations
using finite difference and finite element techniques; random number generation and the Monte
Carlo methods, Spectral analysis using fast Fourier transforms. Working with matrices; solutions
to linear equations; eigenvalue and eigenvector calculations; Numerical integration and
quadrature.
Delivery: 60 Practical Hours
Assessment: 100% Practical Reports
Textbooks
1. Burden, G. and Faires, L., (1993) Numerical Analysis, Pws-Kent Publishing Company.
2. Brian W. K. and Dennis M. R., (1995) The C Programming Language, Associated Press,
London.
3.
References:
4. Bajpai , C. and Fairley, M., (1976) Numerical Methods of Engineering and Scientists, John
Wiley & Sons, Chichester.
5. Konvalina, J. and Wileman, S., (1987) Programming with Pascal, McGraw-Hill, Singapore.
6. Bishop, J., (1998) Java Gently Programming: Principle Explained, 2nd Ed., Publishers
SPH 300: FUNDAMENTALS OF MATERIALS SCIENCE
3 CREDITS
Course Description
The course aims to expose students to the basic knowledge in the production routes of
industrially important materials, emphasise on the factors controlling the properties of materials.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Explain the relationship between structure and properties of materials;
 Relate properties and practical applications of materials.
Course Contents
Classes of materials: Metals, ceramics, polymers, glasses and composites. Structure of materials:
Atomic structure; electronic structure; inter-atomic bonding; crystal structure, crystal defects,
phase transitions and phase diagrams. Properties of materials: Mechanical properties: elasticity,
plasticity, fatigue and fracture, dislocations and their interactions with other lattice defects;
Electric, magnetic, thermal and optical properties of materials; microstructure-property
relationships. Metals: Ferrous alloys: Crystal structure, iron/carbon systems, steel, cast iron,
microstructure and heat treatment. Ceramics: Structure, production/processing, properties,
toughening. Polymers: Chemical structure, thermoplastics, thermal setting, elastomers, polarity,
mechanical characteristics and special plastics. Composite materials: Types, structure and
properties, applications.
37
Environmental effects: Corrosion and wear, prevention. Application: Examples of practical
applications, for example solar energy materials, etc.
Delivery: 45 Contact Hours.
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%
Textbook
1. William D. C., Jr., (2005) Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering: An
Integrated Approach. 2nd Edition, Wiley, New York.
References:
2. James F. Shackelford, (1995) Introduction to Materials Science for Engineers, 4th Edition,
Prentice Hall, London.
3. Oliver H. Wyatt and David Dew-Hughes, (1974) Metals, Ceramics and polymers: An
Introduction to the Structure and Properties of Engineering Materials. Cambridge University
Press.
4. Lawrence H. van Vlack, (1974) Elements of Materials Science, 2nd Edition, Eleventh
Printing, Addison-Wesley Publ. Co., Berlin.
5. Lawrence H. van Vlack , (1970) Materials Science for Engineers. Addison-Wessley Publ.
Co., Berlin.
SPH 301: FUNDAMENTALS OF ELECTRODYNAMICS
3 CREDITS
Course Description
The course aims to give students knowledge on fundamental mathematical relations that are used
to describe the propagation of electromagnetic waves in bounded region,
Course Objectives
At the end of the course, the student should be able to:
 Derive fundamental electromagnetic field equations,
 Derive equations that are used in describing propagation of plane electromagnetic waves
in conducting and non conducting media,
 Get the concept of radiation from the accelerated charge, and
 Differentiate among the types of scattering and dispersion in the field of electrodynamics.
Course Contents
Electromagnetic Field Equation: Maxwell’s equations; E.M. energy--Poynting vector; scalar and
vector potentials; the wave equations. Propagation of E.M. Waves: Plane waves in both
conducting and non-conductor media; reflection and refraction at boundaries of two non
conducting and conducting media; boundary conditions; total internal reflections. Propagation of
E.M. Waves in Bounded Region: Propagation between parallel conducting plates; basic
principles of rectangular wave guides. Radiation from an Accelerated Charge: Dipole radiation,
field of charge in uniform motion; fields of an accelerated charge; radiation at low velocities and
their application in antenna. Scattering and Dispersion: Difference between Scattering and
dispersion, types of scattering i.e. Rayleigh, Mie, Thomspn, Brillouin and Raman.
Delivery: 45 Contact Hours.
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%
38
Textbook
1. Corson, D. R. and Lorrain, P. (1990) Introduction to Electromagnetic Field & Waves, W. H.
Freeman and Company, London.
References
2. Popovic, Z and Popovic, B. D., (2000) Introduction to Electromagnetics, Prentice Hall,
Upper Saddle River, New Jersey.
3. Ulaby, F. T., (1990) Fundamentals of Applied Electromagnetics, Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle
River, New Jersey.
SPH 302: SOLID STATE PHYSICS
3 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended to give students advanced knowledge on the properties of solid materials,
structural and functional properties.
Course Objectives
After completing this course, the student will be able to:
 Describe simple structures in terms of a lattice and unit cell, calculate the cohesive energy
of these structures and understand how they are determined experimentally.
 Explain the basic features of the coupled modes of oscillation of atoms in a crystal lattice
using the one-dimensional chain as a model and relate crystal properties (specific heat,
thermal conductivity) to the behaviour of these oscillations.
 Derive the free electron model, show how it explains various metallic properties and
identify its strengths and weaknesses.
 Explain the effect of the lattice structure on the behaviour of electrons in solids on basis of
the nearly-free electron model and the tight-binding model.
 Explain the basic features of semiconductors and relate them to simple semiconductor
devices.
 Explain the magnetic and superconducting properties of materials using simple models of
the underlying mechanisms.
Course Contents
Crystal structure, the reciprocal lattice, diffraction in crystals and crystal binding. Lattice
dynamics, vibrational modes of a continuous system, elastic waves in an infinite monatomic 1-D
and 2-D Lattice. phonon Statistics and Lattice Specific Heats, Electrons in metals, the Quantized
Free Electron Gas, Band theory of solids, dynamics of electron motion and Superconductivity.
Semiconductors, transport properties, band shapes in semiconductors.
Delivery: 45 Contact Hours.
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Textbook
1. Kitell, C., (1996) Introduction to Solid State Physics, 7th Edition, John Wiley & Sons, New
York.
Reference
2. László Mihály and Michael C. Martin, (1996) Solid State Physics, John Wiley & Sons, New
York.
39
SPH 303: ELECTRONICS
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course will give skills on the designing of electronic circuits containing both analogue and
digital components.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Explain the concepts and terminologies of analogue and digital electronics.
 Build simple electronic circuits containing analogue and digital components
 Test and trouble-shoot simple circuits by using oscilloscope and multimeter.
Course Contents
Passive electronic components; Electric circuit laws; Passive filters. Energy bands in solids;
Semiconductor theory; Junction diode; Bipolar Junction Transistor, Amplifiers. Transistor
switching and applications; Field effect transistor; JFET, MOSFET. Special devices: LDRs,
VDRs, VARICAPs, Thermistors, Opto-electric devices. Transistor building blocks: differential
amplifier, current sources/sinks, operational amplifiers. Active filters using operational
amplifiers. Oscillators; theory, types, crystal and RC oscillators; function generator. Radio and
television transmitters, receivers, modulation and demodulation, antenna, monochrome and
colour TV receivers. Binary arithmetic; binary-coded-decimal, ASCII codes and parity. Logic
gates; NOT, AND, OR, NAND, NOR, XOR, XNOR Boolean Algebra; logic circuits and
Boolean expressions, universality of NAND and NOR gates. Combinational logic circuits;
multiplexers, de-multiplexers, half and full adders, encoders and decoders. Sequential logic
circuits; latches, flip-flops, D, RS, JK, T flip flops, counters and registers; Pulse circuits;
multivibrators, timers and clocks.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours.
Assessment: 40% coursework; 60% Final examination.
Textbooks:
1. Horowitz, P. and Hill, W., (1989) The Art of Electronics, Cambridge University Press.
2. Comer, D. J, (1990) Digital Logic and State Machine Design. Saunders College Publisher.
References:
3. Bogart, T. F., (1993) Electronics and Circuits, Maxwell Macmillan Publishing, London.
4. Mithal, G. K. (2003) Electronic Devices and Circuits, Khanna Publications, Delhi.
5. Young P. H., (1999) Electronics Communication Techniques, 4th Ed., Prentice-Hall, London.
6. Malvino, A. P and Leach D. P., (1998) Digital Principles and Applications, McGraw-Hill
Publishing Company Ltd., New York.
SPH 304: PRACTICALS III
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course is intended to give students advanced skills in data collection, data analysis and
report writing.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course students should be able to:
40



Apply the lecture material to design experimental measurements.
Use the experiments to collect and analyze data.
Write good reports from the experimental results.
Course Contents
A selection of advanced physics experiments chosen to consolidate and extend the student’s
understanding of the lecture courses and to emphasize the experimental basis of physics.
Emphasis is placed on experimental design skills, data analysis tools and scientific report
writing.
Delivery: 60 Practical Hours.
Assessment: Laboratory reports 100%.
Reference
1. Laboratory manual/experiment sheets.
SPH 305: FUNDAMENTALS OF ATMOSPHERIC PHYSICS
2 CREDITS
Course Description
The course will give adequate knowledge in the description and explanation of the major
atmospheric movements and circulations and how they relate to weather.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Explain the Physics of cloud formation and precipitation;
 Describe weather observation and measurement procedures and weather forecasting
models.
Course Contents
Review of atmospheric composition, structure and energy distribution: atmospheric radiative
balance; global energy balance and distribution. Atmospheric dyna
ry and moist adiabatic lapse rates; stability of
lightning.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours.
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Text book:
1. Murray L. S., (1996). Fundamentals of Atmospheric Physics, Academic Press, London.
References:
41
2. Bob Crowder, (2000) The Wonders of the Weather, Bureau of Meteorology, 2nd Ed. London.
3. Mason, W. and Hughes, J., (2001) Introduction to Environmental Physics: Planet Earth, Life
and Climate, Taylor and Francis, London.
4. Guyot, G. C., (1998) Physics of the Environment and Climate, Wiley, New York.
5. Boeker, E. and van Grondelle R., (1999) Environmental Physics, 2nd Ed., John Wiley & Sons,
New York.
SPH 306: ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
2 CREDITS
Course Description
This course is designed to introduce students to the broad range of issues concerned in the
relationship between energy-use and environmental change. Energy is mainly derived from fossil
fuels; there are two problems with this energy source. The first is that it is finite, and so in the
future we must move to sustainable energy sources. Secondly, fossil fuels pollute the
environment on both a local and a global scale. For example the greenhouse gases in the
atmosphere are increasing, and this is likely to lead to global warming. Students will become
acquainted with the technical, economic and social issues in sufficient depth to allow them to
make informed and quantitative judgements on proposals to ameliorate environmental damage
by policy and other changes
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Explain the scientific concepts of energy and energy conversion processes;
 Describe the world’s fossil fuel resources, their depletion, and the environmental impact
of their use;
 Describe the promise and problems of nuclear energy;
 Assess renewable energy sources with emphasis on their strengths and weaknesses for
practical energy supply.
Course Contents
Energy Resources and World Energy Use; Analysis of current world energy supplies and
Tanzania energy consumption; Trends in energy consumption; Fossil fuel reserves and related
environmental problems; Nuclear Energy; Energy release by fission of uranium and plutonium.
Advantages and disadvantages of nuclear fission for power production; The operation of a
nuclear fission reactor; Nuclear waste and radiation hazards; Renewable Energy Resources; The
sun as the earth’s major source of renewable energy; Solar radiation: Active and passive solar
heating; Solar thermal electric power generation; Photovoltaic conversion of solar to electrical
energy; Wind energy and available wind power; Practical wind turbines and wind farms;
Hydroelectric power generation and pumped storage schemes; Advantages of hydropower and
environmental costs of large dams; Ocean wave energy; Wave energy availability and
limitations; Devices for extraction of wave energy; Tidal energy, tidal barrages and tidal streams;
Limitations of wind, wave and tidal power; Biomass as a renewable energy source; Importance
of energy storage for transport and electricity supply; Hydrogen as a secondary fuel.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours.
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Textbook:
1. McFarland, E. L., Hun, J. L. and Campbell, J. L., (1994). Energy, Physics & the
Environment, Wuerz Publishing Ltd., Winnipeg.
42
References:
2. Cunningham, W. P. and Saigo, B. W., (1999) Environmental Science: A Global Concern, 5th
Edition, McGraw-Hill Publ. Co.; New York.
3. Allaby, M., (2000) Basics of Environmental Science, Taylor and Francis, Wiley, London.
4. Boyle G., (1996) Renewable Energy – Power for a Sustainable Future, OUP, London.
SPH 307: PHYSICS PROJECT
2 CREDITS
Course description
This course is designed to give students skills in carrying out independent research work.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course a student will be able to:
 Develop and write a research proposal;
 Design and implement a research activity independently;
 Use and apply different tools of data analysis;
 Write a research report.
Course Contents
Research methodology; identifying the problem, literature review, sampling, data, collection,
analysis and presentation; Independent and supervised research based on topics selected from ongoing research activities in Physics or proposed by students provided it is feasible. Emphasis will
be on research proposal development, experimental design and scientific report writing.
Delivery: Supervised independent research
Assessment: Presentation 40%, Report 60%
SPH 308: PHYSICS OF THE ATOM
2 CREDITS
Course description
The course is intended to explain the theoretical basis for and applicability of the predominant
nuclear models in relation to experimental observations..
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Describe the theoretical modeling of atomic structure and its corresponding experimental
observations.
 Apply quantum mechanical techniques, classical electromagnetism and mechanics as well
as optics in order to describe the internal structure of atoms.
 Identify and describe the nomenclature for labelling various nuclides.
 Describe structure and properties of nuclides.
 Describe radioactive decay processes, both natural and induced.
 Identify applications of nuclear Physics, their limitations and their possible extensions.
Course Contents
Atomic Physics: Rutherford model, Bohr theory, Hydrogen atom: Quantum mechanical
description of one-electron atoms, Probability densities and allowed transitions, quantized orbital
angular momentum and associated magnetic dipole moments, Stern-Gerlach experiment and the
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electron spin; magnetic moment, Spin-spin interaction and Hund’s rules, spin-orbital interaction
and fine structure. Zeeman effect. Two-electron atom: identical half-integer spin particles; the
Pauli’s exclusion principle; the Periodic Table; L-S and j-j coupling; Optical and X-ray spectra;
Molecular bonds Nuclear Physics: Nuclear structure and properties: atomic masses, binding
energy, and nuclear stability. Nuclear reactions: Cross-sections, the Q-value, and reaction
mechanisms. Nuclear models: Strong interaction between nucleons, Liquid drop model and
applications to fission and isobaric transformations; Shell model and prediction of selected
nuclear properties. Natural and artificial radioactivity: Conservation laws for radioactive decay
and nuclear particle energies; The Mössbauer effect. Nuclear energy: Breeder reactors; fusion
and fusion as energy sources; the atomic bomb; the hydrogen bomb.
Delivery: 30 Contact Hours.
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Text Books
1. Beiser, A., (1995) Concepts of Modern Physics, 6th Edition, McGraw-Hill, London.
2. Krane, K. S., (1988) Introductory Nuclear Physics, Wiley, New Jersey.
References:
3. Haken, H. and Wolf, H. C., (2000) Physics of Atoms and Quanta, 6th Ed., Springer,
Amsterdam.
4. Basdevant, J. L. and Dalibard, J., (2000) Quantum Mechanics Solver: How to Apply
Quantum Theory to Modern Physics, Springer-Verlag, Berlin.
5. Eisberg, R. and Resnick, R., (1985) Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei
and Particles, 2nd Edition, John Wiley, London.
6. Griffiths, D. J., (1987) Introduction to Elementary Particles, Wiley, New Jersey.
7. Chen, F. F., (1984) Introduction to Plasma Physics, 2nd Ed., Plenum Press.
8. John, S. L., (2001) Nuclear Physics, John Wiley, London.
SPH 309: ELEMENTARY PARTICLES
2 CREDITS
Course description
This is a course that offers to explain the basis and foundations of particle Physics.
Course Objectives
At the end of the course the student should be able to:
 Describe the standard model.
 Distinguish among the different elementary particles.
 Explain the theories on the unification of the fundamental forces.
Course Contents
Historical perspective of hadrons: An overview. Elementary (or fundamental) particle, definition,
Particle interaction: The four basics forces; Gravitational, the weak, the strong and the
electromagnetic forces. Family of particles and the Standard model, fermions and bosons,
incompatibility with Einstein’s general relativity. Thegrviton and the E-particle. Fundamental
fermions: Quarks, leptons, neutrinos, muons and tau lepton. Quarks model: Quarks and
antiquarks Quark and colour charges, antiquarks and anticolor. Quarks and electric charges.
Fundamental bosons; Gluons. Beyond the Standard model: Grand unification theory.
Supersymmetry; String theory; Preon theory.
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Delivery: 30 Contact Hours.
Assessment: Coursework 40%, Final Examination 60%.
Textbook
1. Griffiths, D. J., (1987) Introduction to Elementary Particles. Wiley, New York.
References:
2. Gribbin, J., (2000) Q is for Quantum - An Encyclopedia of Particle Physics, Simon &
Schuster, Massachusetts.
3. Clark, J. E. O., (2004) The Essential Dictionary of Science, Barnes & Noble.
4. Veltman, M., (2003) Facts and Mysteries in Elementary Particle Physics, World Scientific.
5. Feynman, R. P. and Weinberg, S., (1987) Elementary Particles and the Laws of Physics, The
1986 Dirac Memorial Lectures, New York: Cambridge University Press.
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