Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Advanced Physical Instrumentation Techniques
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr. J. Cameron
SCQF
Level
11
Module
Code
B11PS
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
1. Pre-requisites
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
4. Replacement Module
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
Code:
5.
Availability as an
Elective
Yes
No
Date Of Replacement:
MChem in Chemistry, BSc (Hons) in Chemistry with Materials, MChem Chemistry with Materials, MChem in Chemistry with
Pharmaceutical Chemistry, MChem in Chemistry with Forensic Science, MChem in Chemistry with Industrial Experience,


7. Aims
This module aims to present an advanced discussion of some important topics in modern Physical Chemistry:
 Principles of Optics, Spectroscopic Instrumentation and Lasers
 Modern Laser Spectroscopic Techniques and their applications
 Probing the Atmosphere: From Field to the Laboratory
 Surface Analysis
8. Syllabus




Principles of Optics and Lasers: Fundamental nature of light, introduction to optics, refraction, diffraction and interference effects including Fourier transform.
Principles of lasers, practical laser systems, commercially available lasers, harmonic generation. Photonic detectors.
Application of Lasers: Modern high resolution spectroscopic techniques. Laser absorption, including cavity enhanced and modulation techniques, limits of
detection. LIF and REMPI including VMI. Application to laboratory studies of kinetics and dynamics.
Probing the Atmosphere: Bulk versus Trace Composition; Absorption and Emission Spectroscopy; Remote Sensing; Laboratory tools in atmospheric chemistry;
Modelling tools in atmospheric Chemistry
Surface Analysis: Basic Vacuum and Surface Science; Electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis; Analysis of surfaces by desorption methods; Ambient surface
analysis
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
1/2
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Advanced Physical Instrumentation Techniques
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr. J. Cameron
SCQF
Level
11
Module
Code
B11PS
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to demonstrate:
 Demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding of applied physical chemistry, at the forefront of the subject
 Display a critical understanding of the concepts, theories and principles discussed in the module
 Integrate previous knowledge from across chemistry with the topics discussed in the module
 Analyse, evaluate and interpret new methods and techniques at the forefront of chemistry
 Execute a defined literature research project and identify applications to specific tasks
 Use fundamental principles to solve both qualitative and quantitative analytical problems
Apply specialised skill to the solution of some chemical problems
Personal Abilities Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
Personal abilities are embedded in the module. The module provides the opportunity to :
 Critically review and consolidate knowledge, skills and practices in chemistry
 Communicate by writing summaries and reports with professional level colleagues
 Interpret and evaluate a wide range of information to solve problems of both a familiar and unfamiliar nature
 Use a range of software to support and enhance work at an advanced level
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Use ICT skills with on-line materials to support the learning process
 Apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge
 Exercise initiative and independence in carrying out literature research and learning activities
10. Assessment Methods
11. Re-assessment Methods
Method
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
Method
(if applicable)
Modular Examination
Continuous Assessment
2h
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
50%
50%
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
27 September, 2007
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
15 September, 2008
Version
Number
1.0
2/2