Teaching
CBMS102 - General Chemistry
Chemistry stands at the forefront of change in the 21st century. It is the basis for the development of new medicines, new materials, new ways of monitoring and improving our environment through green technologies, and many other rapidly advancing fields.
In this unit students learn the principles of physical, inorganic and general chemistry, gaining insights into the electronic structure of atoms, the properties of molecules and role of energy in chemical change.
The unit also allows students to develop critical skills in solving quantitative problems that serve them well in later studies. The physical properties of solids, liquids and gases; metals, semi-conductors and insulators; electrolyte solutions; synthetic polymers, and biomolecules are discussed.
Another important focus of the unit is on the control of chemical reactions through changing the rates of reactions or by altering the concentrations of compounds present at equilibrium. Reactions involving acids, oxidising agents and metal complexes are discussed, and an introduction to thermodynamics and electrochemistry is presented. All of the chemical principles explored in the unit are illustrated by economically, environmentally and biologically important examples from the real world, thereby enhancing students' understanding and allowing them to appreciate the role of chemistry in everyday life.
CBMS207 - Physical and Environmental Chemistry I
Environmental issues are of foremost concern in the world today. The environment depends on complex interactions of chemical and physical processes.
In this unit these processes will be explored through the study of the underlying principles that govern the properties and behaviour of chemical systems.
Physical chemistry permeates all of modern chemistry and many adjoining areas such as biomolecular sciences, materials science and, of course, environmental science. Using environmental chemistry examples and contexts, we will explore the “what”, “why” and “how fast” of chemistry: Structure, Energy, and Rate. These topics will be examined in terms of the origin, transport and fate of chemicals in the biosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere.
CBMS307 - Physical and Environmental Chemistry II
This unit explores the underlying principles that govern the properties and behaviour of chemical processes. Using environmental chemistry examples and contexts, we will explore the “what”, “why” and “how fast” of chemistry: Structure, Energy, and Rate. The theoretical foundations of these topics are respectively, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics and equilibrium statistical mechanics, and chemical kinetics.
There is an emphasis of the chemistry of global climate change, ozone depletion, dispersal and transformation of chemicals in the environment, equilibrium and non-equilibrium processes in the World’s oceans and other environmentally relevant topics. Measurement and modelling of these systems will be described and practiced.
Visit the Physical and Environmental Chemistry II Unit Guide
CBMS302 - Chemistry Capstone
This unit provides an opportunity to take an overview of your studies in your Major, and a focus on how what you have learnt equips you for your next step, whether this is to further study, or into the workforce.
We will examine the latest advances in chemistry, such as in Green Chemistry, molecular recognition and drug design through guest lectures from leading researchers. We will look at the idea of the “ethical chemist”, and through workshops with industry employers and recruiters we will get you ready to apply for positions in industry and academia.
An important part of the course will be a self-directed laboratory investigation into a topic of current interest, such as biodiesel synthesis and characterisation, development of novel materials, and new synthesis methods.
You will plan and carry out the investigation, and report on the outcomes. You will have the opportunity to use sophisticated research instruments and to refine your laboratory skills.
CBMS235 - Engaging the Community in Science
This unit provides an opportunity for university students from all disciplines to undertake science outreach. Through participation and community engagement this unit aims to inspire an appreciation of the fascination of science and its relevance to everyday life as well as provide leadership skills and positive role models at the school and university levels.
This unit will provide you with the opportunity to work with secondary and tertiary students and staff to run interactive science shows and other science activities for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, rural and refugee students, Aboriginal community members and the wider public.
The curriculum will develop your skills in mentoring and working with children and Indigenous people, as well as interactive science-based activities. Further, this unit will provide you with leadership and communication skills and an appreciation of ethics, and through the interaction with the wider community, will be an important part of preparing you to become a socially responsible global citizen.
This unit is of value for all university students and does not require a science background.
CBMS188 - Advanced Chemistry I & CBMS389 - Advanced Chemistry III
This unit is a full-year unit based on contemporary topics in chemistry and biomolecular sciences. It is comprised of weekly research-focussed seminars and discussions.
This unit caters for advanced students who are strong in chemistry and/or science and who are interested in pursuing a scientific career. It aims to encourage well-qualified students to reach their full potential. This unit is an extension of CBMS102 General Chemistry and CBMS103 Organic and Biological Chemistry.
The unit will treat some topics in more depth and introduce others that are not covered in the regular undergraduate units.
The weekly one-hour discussion sessions will also address recent advances in the molecular sciences. Student discussions are led by research scientists of the Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences and each student is mentored by a third year advanced chemistry student. In addition, students are encouraged to participate in the research activities of the department over the summer recess through vacation scholarships.