Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Chemistry for the Life Sciences
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr J.H. Cameron
SCQF
Level
7
1. Pre-requisites
none
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
B17CA ; B17CB
4. Replacement Module
Code:
Date Of Replacement:
5.
Module
Code
B17LS
Availability as an
Elective
Semester
Yes

2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
No
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
7. Aims
The module aims to :
 provide an introduction to the fundamental concepts of atomic theory and the construction of the periodic table
 introduce the basic concepts of chemical bonding theory and the structure of molecules of biological relevance
 describe elementary ideas of stoichiometry in chemical reactions
 give a broad overview of the kinds of structure and reactivity of the families of organic compounds relevant to biological chemistry
 provide an introduction to the fundamental concepts of thermochemistry, equilibrium in chemical systems and chemical catalysis
 describe the structure and function of molecules of biological relevance
 describe the types of chemical reactions underpinning biological metabolic pathways
 give a broad overview of the environmental impact of some chemical species
 introduce a range of techniques used in the analysis of molecular species and the identification of chemical structure
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Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Chemistry for the Life Sciences
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr J.H. Cameron
SCQF
Level
7
Module
Code
B17LS
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
8. Syllabus



Atomic Structure – sub-atomic particles - protons, neutrons and electrons ; atomic orbitals ; orbital shapes.
Electron Configurations and Periodicity – orbital energies and electron configurations ; atomic properties and periodic trends - electronegativity.
Basic Concepts of Chemical Bonding – ionic bonding ; covalent bonding – octet rule, valency, bond polarity, Lewis structures, resonance, hypervalency, shapes
of simple molecules ; dipole moments ; valence bond theory – hybrid orbitals ; bonding to metal ions – the donor/acceptor bond.
 Intermolecular forces – London, dipole-dipole and hydrogen bonding interactions.
 Chemistry of carbon compounds – the common functional groups and some examples of their reactions.
 Structures of simple organic compounds – sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, purines, pyrimidines.
 Oxidation/reduction chemistry – electron transfer reactions.
 Structure and Function of Biological Macromolecules – e.g. proteins, nucleic acids, biological membranes
 Chemical Reactions in Metabolism – e.g. glycolysis, Krebs’ cycle, oxidation/reduction of NAD+ /NADH and FAD+/FADH
 Determination of molecular structure – non-invasive techniques of structural analysis e.g. uv, ir, esr, nmr ; structure determination using X-rays
 Thermochemistry – Free Energy in chemical reactions – G, H, S and their inter relationship
 Chemical Equilibrium – pH, pKa, buffering of solutions
 Catalysis in Chemistry – role of the catalyst in chemical reactions ; enzy
 Chemicals in the Environment – environmental impact of fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides and heavy metals on the hydrosphere ; atmospheric pollution – acid
gases, CFC’s, greenhouse gases
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)
On completion of this module, the learner will be able to:
 Demonstrate a working knowledge of the basic principles of the structure of the atom
 Use fundamental principles to solve both qualitative and numerical problems
 Describe the main types of chemical bonding as they relate to the structure of matter
 Predict the structure and geometry of simple covalent compounds of biological relevance
 Appreciate the various types of intermolecular force and their influence on the structure of matter
 Discuss the range of organic molecules and the types of functional groups they possess
 Describe the main types of chemical reactions undergone by organic molecules
 Demonstrate a knowledge of the basic principles of thermodynamics at an appropriate level
 Discuss the process of equilibria in the context of chemical systems
 Appreciate the role of catalysts in chemistry
 Describe the structure and function of biological macromolecules
 Discuss the significance of chemical reactions in the biological process of metabolism
 Be aware of the environmental impact of some chemical species in the biosphere, and of potential remediation strategies
 Appreciate the evolving nature of knowledge and understanding in a biological chemistry context
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Form 20
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Module Title
Chemistry for the Life Sciences
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
Module
Co-ordinator
Dr J.H. Cameron
SCQF
Level
7
Personal Abilities
Module
Code
B17LS
Semester
2
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
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 :
 Demonstrate numerical, graphical and problem-solving skills in a range of areas
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Communicate complex ideas and information effectively to a group of peers
 Use ICT skills with on-line materials, assessments (formative and summative) 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
 Practise the use of standard methods in the solution of routine chemical problems within familiar contexts
 Exercise some initiative and independence in carrying out defined activities
10. Assessment Methods
Method
11. Re-assessment Methods
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
Method
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
Examination
Continuous Assessment
2h
(if applicable)
70%
30%
Examination (100%)
2h
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
24 August, 2007
Date of Approval by
School Committee
Date of
Implementation
15 September, 2008
Version
Number
1.0
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