Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Advanced Organic Chemistry {BSc(Hons) – S2}
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Chemistry Teaching Group Convenor
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B10OF
Semester
1. Pre-requisites
Minimum D grade in Stage 3 Organic Chemistry modules B19OC and B19OD, or the equivalent
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
B10OE
4. Replacement Module
Code:
On
15
B11OP
Date Of Replacement:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
7. Aims
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
5.
Availability as an
Elective
Yes

No
All BSc(Hons) chemistry degrees
The module aims to :
 introduce new aspects of transition metal catalysed reactions and asymmetric synthesis
 demonstrate the relevance of new synthetic methods to the synthesis of natural products/pharmaceuticals
 provide an advanced discussion in key topics in physical organic chemistry
 demonstrate the application of photochemical techniques to synthetic and mechanistic organic chemistry
 investigate critically the chemistry and synthetic utility of short-lived intermediates
 describe the principles of modern advanced synthetic methods in Organic Chemistry
1/3
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Advanced Organic Chemistry {BSc(Hons) – S2}
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Chemistry Teaching Group Convenor
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B10OF
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
8. Syllabus





Transition metal catalysis and Main Group Elements in Synthesis– Selected aspects of transition metal catalysis with particular emphasis on palladium
catalysed reactions and alkene metathesis. Organosulfur and organosilicon chemistry in synthesis. Case studies to highlight the use of transition metal catalysts in
the synthesis of natural products/pharmaceuticals.
Asymmetric synthesis – Selected aspects of asymmetric synthesis, with particular emphasis on the formation of C-C bonds, will be discussed. Asymmetric
catalysis will be highlighted.
Organic Photochemistry - Fundamental photochemistry of simple carbonyl compounds and enones; photochemistry of simple olefins, polyenes and aromatic
Compounds; applications of photochemistry (photochromism; photochemistry of primary vision).
Short-Lived Intermediates – Organic free radicals; Carbenes and carbenoids; Nitrenes; Arynes
Applications of modern synthetic techniques in Organic Chemistry – Selected examples from Green Chemistry, Flow Chemistry, Microwave Chemistry
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)
2/3
Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Advanced Organic Chemistry {BSc(Hons) – S2}
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Chemistry Teaching Group Convenor
SCQF
Level
10
Module
Code
B10OF
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to:
 Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of transition metal catalysis and asymmetric synthesis, at the forefront of the
subject
 Display a critical understanding of the concepts, theories and principles discussed in the module
 Show how photochemistry and short-lived intermediates provide synthetic routes to structurally novel organic compounds
 Integrate previous knowledge from across all of chemistry with the topics discussed in the module
 Appreciate how chemistry is developed using a range of established techniques and research methodologies
 Analyse, evaluate and interpret critically experimental evidence at the forefront of chemistry
 Execute a defined research project and identify and implement relevant outcomes
 Use fundamental principles to solve both qualitative and numerical problems of an advanced nature
 Apply specialised skill to the solution of some synthetic problems in organic chemistry
 Appreciate the development and application of new synthetic reagents and methods in organic chemistry
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
 Make formal presentations on a specialised topic to an informed audience, using a range of appropriate methods
 Communicate effectively with professional level colleagues
 Interpret, use and critically evaluate a wide range of data to solve problems of both a familiar and unfamiliar nature
 Use a broad range of software to support and enhance work at an advanced level
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Use a broad range of ICT skills with on-line materials and web links to support the learning process
 Apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge
 Exercise significant initiative and independence in carrying out research and learning activities
 Work with groups of peers to discuss chemical problems and identify solutions
10. Assessment Methods
11. Re-assessment Methods
Method
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
Method
(if applicable)
Synoptic Examination
Practical Work
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
28 September, 2009
3h
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
67%
33%
Date of
Implementation
15 September, 2009
Version
Number
1.0
3/3