You need to activate javascript for this site.
Menu Conteúdo Rodapé
  1. Home
  2. Courses
  3. Biotechnology
  4. Physical Chemistry

Physical Chemistry

Code 15857
Year 2
Semester S1
ECTS Credits 6
Workload PL(15H)/T(30H)/TP(15H)
Scientific area Chemistry
Entry requirements Not applicable.
Learning outcomes The course unit aims to provide a basic understanding of the core area of physical chemistry: chemical thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, phase equilibrium and chemical kinetics, based around the theme of systems, states and processes applied to biological phenomena.
At the end of this UC the student should be able to:
- Mastering the terminology of thermodynamics and chemical kinetics: nomenclature, system units and conventions.
- Apply the learned formalism to solve problems and case studies of thermodynamics and chemical kinetics related to biological phenomena.
- Plan, design and develop experimental work to study simple thermodynamic kinetic properties.
-Treat experimental data in order to understand systems behavior by calculation and analysis of derived thermodynamic and kinetic properties.
- Demonstrated scientific ability and critical thinking in interpreting systems thermodynamic and kinetic behavior.
Syllabus - Thermodynamic laws: 1st Law and generalized work. Statistical interpretation of entropy and 2nd law. Gibbs energy.
- Solution thermodynamics: Partial molar quantities. Binary mixture of volatile liquids. Real solutions. Thermodynamics of mixing. Colligative
properties.
- States and chemical equilibrium: Phase diagrams. Thermodynamic basis of chemical equilibrium. Binding of ligands to macromolecules.
Bioenergetics and standard state.
- Thermodynamics of ions and electron transport: Electrolytic solutions. Ionic activity. Ions transport across biological. Electrochemical cells thermodynamics.
membranes.
- Surface phenomena: Surface tension. Excess surface concentration. Adsorption isotherms.
- Chemical Kinetics: Kinetic parameters. Reaction Mechanisms. Reaction dynamics. Homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis.
- Six practical assignments: Calorimetry. Partial molar quantities. Chemical equilibrium. Colligative properties. Adsorption isotherms. Chemical kinetics.
Main Bibliography - Chang R., “Physical Chemistry for the Chemical and Biological Sciences”, University Science Books, 2000.
- Atkins P. , de-Paula J., “Physical Chemistry for the Life Sciences”, W. H. Freeman, 2006.
- Leung M., “Problems and Solutions to accompany Raymond Chang: Physical Chemistry for the Chemical and Biological Sciences”, University Science Books, 2000.
- Schafer W., Klunker J., Schelenz T., Meier T., Symonds A., “Laboratory Experiments Chemistry”, PHYWE series of publications, Germany, 2008.
- Chang R., “Physical Chemistry for the Biosciences”, University Science Books, 2005.
- Atkins P., Jones L., “Chemical Principles: The Quest for Insight”, 3.rd Edition, W. H. Freeman, 2005.
- Barrow G., “Physical Chemistry”, 6.st Edition, Mc Graw Hill, 1996.
- Atkins P., “Physical Chemistry”, 5.st Edition, Oxford University Press, 1994.
Teaching Methodologies and Assessment Criteria The UC assessment can be carried out traditionally or continuously, with the student choosing to do so by 9/24.
The continuous evaluation will include the assessment of 4 components:
1- Carrying out intermediate frequencies (fi): theoretical component (25%) and theoretical-practical component (25%).
2- Monitoring the work carried out (25%).
3-Laboratory work and practical attendance (25%).
The evaluation carried out in a traditional way will include the assessment of 3 components:
- Completion of the theoretical component (37.5%).
- Completion of the theoretical-practical component (37.5%).
- Laboratory work and completion of intermediate practical component frequencies (25%).
Component 1:
There will be 2 frequencies, of equal weight, with questions from the theoretical (25% or 37.5%) and theoretical-practical components (25% or 37.5%).
If resolved online, frequency grades >= 15 v imply an oral exam (20 min.) carried out online with the presence of 2 UC professors.
Language Portuguese. Tutorial support is available in English.
Last updated on: 2025-01-10

The cookies used in this website do not collect personal information that helps to identify you. By continuing you agree to the cookie policy.