HND Applied Chemistry
MidKent College
1. Title of the module Nuclear Chemistry
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Department responsible for management of the module SPS
Start date of the module September 2012
The number of students expected to take the module 15
Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module? X20704 Biochemistry
The level of the module I
Number of credits which the module represents 15
Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern) Year 1
Prerequisite/co-requisite modules none
Programme of study to which the module contributes HND/C Applied Chemistry
11. The intended subject specific learning outcomes
At the end of this module the student will be able to:
1. Understand the behaviour of the nucleus
2. Understand the use of isotopes in chemistry and medicine
3. Understand the chemistry of the nuclear power industry
4. Be able to report on the impact of radioactivity on society and the environment.
These will contribute to the following programme learning outcomes:
A
B
C
D
3, 5, 6, 7
1, 2, 3
1, 3, 4
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
12. The intended generic learning outcomes and, as appropriate, their relationship to programme learning
outcomes
At the end of the module the learner will be able to demonstrate:
a) decision making skills
b) Critical thinking skills
c) Ability to work with complex material
d) Communication and report writing skills
e) Ability to scan and organise data, abstract meaning from information and share knowledge with others
f) Effective self-management skills
These will contribute to the following programme learning outcomes:
A
B
C
D
6
1, 2
1, 4
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
13. A synopsis of the curriculum
The module commences with a study of aspects of nuclear structure and the criteria for nuclear
stability. The use of a range of isotopes in spectroscopy, analysis and investigation of chemical
reaction pathways is explored together with applications of radiotracers in medicine.
Aspects of nuclear power production relating to nuclear fuels, types of nuclear reactor and their
operation and control are considered. Mining and enrichment of uranium ore, reprocessing used
fuel and classification and management of waste are reviewed.
The module concludes by considering the dangers of radiation exposure, nuclear power accidents
and public perception of the use of nuclear power.
April 2011
HND Applied Chemistry
MidKent College
14. Indicative Reading List
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Burrows, Holman, Parsons, Pilling, Price – Chemistry3 (Oxford University Press, 2009) ISBN 978-0-19-927789-6
Young and Friedman, University Physics – Extended version with Modern Physics” 9th edition or higher
15. Learning and Teaching Methods, including nature and number of contact hours and total study hours which
will be expected of students, and how these relate to achievement of the intended learning outcomes
The total learning time for the module will be 150 hours. The module will be delivered by means of lectures, seminars,
and practical work. Learners will be expected to undertake approximately 90 hours of independent study, including
research, required reading and answering assignments.
There will be 32 one hour lectures, 4 one hour supervision/problem sessions one per learning outcome and 8 half day
laboratory sessions (total 60 hours). This will include a variety of tasks, discussions, study materials and case studies,
practical’s, as appropriate to the topics being covered, with the focus being on the learning outcomes.
16. Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended learning outcomes
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April 2011
Laboratory practical reports and questions 20%(learning outcomes 1-4, generic outcomes d, e and f)
Problems for each learning outcome 20% (learning outcomes 1-4, generic outcomes a, b and c)
Coursework 60% (learning outcomes 1-4, generic outcomes a to f)
HND Applied Chemistry
MidKent College
Learning outcome
To achieve this outcome a student must demonstrate
the ability to:
Understand the behaviour of the nucleus
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Explain nuclear structure using specified calculations
Discuss factors affecting nuclear stability
Explain radioactive decay using specified equations
Discuss the properties of alpha, beta and gamma
radiation
 Review health and safety regulations governing working
with radioactive materials
Understand the use of isotopes in chemistry and
medicine
 Explain the application of isotopes in spectroscopy
 Explain the application of isotopes in chemical reactions
and analysis
 Discuss the applications of radio isotopes to medicine
Understand the chemistry of the nuclear power
industry
 Explain how nuclear fuels function
 Explain the function of different types of nuclear power
station
 Explain the nuclear fuel cycle
 Discuss methods used in the reprocessing of spent
fuels
Be able to report on the impact of radioactivity on
society and the environment.
 Define the units used in measuring radiation
 Report on biological effects of radiation exposure
 Draw conclusions from investigations into nuclear power
station accidents
 Review public perceptions of nuclear power
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Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space
This is an existing module and there are no new implications for learning resources.
As far as can be reasonably anticipated, the curriculum, learning and teaching methods and forms of
assessment do not present any non-justifiable disadvantage to students with disabilities
Statement by the Director of Learning and Teaching: "I confirm I have been consulted
on the above module proposal and have given advice on the correct procedures and
required content of module proposals"
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Director of Learning and Teaching
Date
Statement by the Head of Department: "I confirm that the Department has approved the
introduction of the module and will be responsible for its resourcing"
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Head of Department
April 2011
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Date