Related Course/s:

A unit of study in the Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology), , and Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry and Chemistry).

Aims & Objectives:

• To build upon, and reinforce, the knowledge gained in HES1510 (Chemistry 1).
• To introduce students to real world examples of the use of chemistry.
• To strengthen the areas of organic, physical and inorganic chemistry/
• To provide a strong basis for later applications and extensions of chemistry to real world situations.

At the end of this unit students will be able to:

• To illustrate some of the scientific basis behind the choice consumers have when obtaining common household products.
• To provide a basic understanding of the science involved in how many of those products work.
• Demonstrate the capacity to undertake specific laboratory experimentation designed to chemically analyse consumer products.

Teaching Methods:

Lectures, practical classes, student based learning, web based unit presence

Assessment:

Assignment (5%), final examination (50%), practical reports (20%), mid semester test (25%)

Generic Skills Outcomes:

Students are expected to enhance several of their graduate attributes during this unit and should consult with your lecturer if not clear as to how this unit achieves this. The graduate attributes which relate to this unit help to produce students who are:

Are capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas: have a basic understanding of the theoretical principles involved in the general area.
· have an in-depth technical competence in the specific (core) discipline.
· can apply specific knowledge of the (core) discipline to real situations.
· are able to engage in informed critical inquiry.
· have a sense of social responsibility for subject specific knowledge and its applications.
· have an understanding of the principles of sustainable design and development.

Operate effectively and ethically in work and community situations:
· have the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
· can effectively communicate within and without the subject discipline.
· have the ability to operate locally and internationally.

Are adaptable and manage change:
· are self-motivated.
· have multifaceted research and problem solving skills.
· are flexible.
· can understand problem identification, formulation and solution.
· have an expectation that learning is lifelong.
· have the ability to keep learning past the lifetime of the course.

Are aware of environments in which they will be contributing:
· have a broad understanding of the technical, social, cultural, ecological and economic environments and their interconnectedness.
· have a broad understanding of the need for sustainability and sustainable development.
· have a basic understanding of the need to carry out work in an ethical and socially responsible fashion.

IEAust Generic Attributes
In addition to the Swinburne generic attributes, this unit is also expected to enhance skills recognised by the Institution of Engineers (Australia), specifically:
· Ability to apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals
· Ability to communicate effectively, not only with engineers but also with the community at large
· In-depth technical competence in at least one engineering discipline
· Ability to understand problem identification, formulation and solution
· Ability to utilise a systems approach to design and operational performance
· Understanding of the social, cultural, global and environmental responsibilities of the professional engineer, and the need for sustainable development.
· Understanding of the principles of sustainable design and development
· Understanding of professional and ethical responsibilities and commitment to them
· Expectation of the need to undertake lifelong learning, and capacity to do so

Content:

Agricultural Products and Soil Chemistry:

• Chemical and 'organic' fertilisers, their analysis, content, purpose and use.
• The N:P:K ratio in fertilisers.
• The structure of clay and sand and their distinction based on particle size.
• The role of Ca2+ in clay structure.
• The importance of nutrient adsorption onto soils for plant uptake. pH measurement and
  significance in soils.
• Pesticides and herbicides in the environment: an introduction.

Advertising and Mis-advertising of Consumer Products:

• Misleading advertising in the supermarket.
• How to compare products.
• The mathematics involved in consumer choice.
• Choosing 'healthy' products on the basis of their chemical constituents, and the science
  behind those choices.

Cleaning Products:

• How do common surfactants work?
• What are the important ingredients in soap powder, pool chlorine etc., and what are their roles?
• Formulation of household cleaners.

Consumer Guide to Chemicals:

• What are the chemicals found in common materials and products?
• Food, beverage, medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and paper applications.
• The chemistry of swimming pools.

Reading Materials:

Recommended Reading: