Units
Physical Analytical Techniques
Unit code: PQB551
Contact hours: 4 per week
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs
Modern methods of physical analysis are an important tool for the physical scientist. This unit provides an introduction to the physical principles and applications in three fields of analysis: X-ray diffraction, analytical electron microscopy and physical spectroscopy. Each of these topics encompasses a variety of measurement techniques. The methodologies presented have wide application in a number of areas of science and technology including nanotechnology and materials research and development. Lectures are supplemented by laboratory practicals to enable students to gain familiarity and experience with the instrumentation.
Availability
| Semester | Available |
|---|---|
| 2013 Semester 1 | Yes |
Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013
Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.
Rationale
Modern methods of physical analysis are an important tool for the physical scientist. This unit provides an introduction to the physical principles and applications in three fields of analysis: X-ray diffraction, analytical electron microscopy and physical spectroscopy. Each of these topics encompasses a variety of measurement techniques. The methodologies presented have wide application in a number of areas of science and technology including nanotechnology and materials research and development. Lectures are supplemented by laboratory practicals to enable students to gain familiarity and experience with the instrumentation.
Aims
In this unit you will be introduced to a range of techniques used in analysing the physical structure and properties of matter.
Objectives
On completion of this unit you should be able to:
1. Describe and discuss the techniques and applications of X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy and physical spectroscopy.
2. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the practicalities of these techniques.
Generic attributes:
On completion of this unit you will have developed a range of generic attributes including:
Content
In this unit you will be introduced to the theory and practice of important analysis techniques relevant to the materials sciences. Topics covered include:
Approaches to Teaching and Learning
In this unit you will attend lectures and practicals to explain and demonstrate the content as described above, supplemented by some written assignments. In addition there will be a number of laboratory sessions during the semester which are intended to provide you with practical experience in the operation of the instrumentation, and in the recording and presentation of data. Together these approaches will lead to an understanding of the scope and limitations involved in the application of the physical analysis techniques presented in this unit.
Assessment
You will be required to undertake the following mix of formative and summative assessment. Each assessment instrument will address the stated objectives of the unit.Formative assessment:
There are ample opportunities during the practical sessions to interact with the staff and receive feedback and advice on the lecture topics, practical reports and assignment questions.
Assessment name:
Laboratory Practical Exercises
Description:
(Formative and summative)/i> - Laboratory reports on practical experiments.
Relates to objectives:
2.
Weight:
30%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Throughout Semester
Assessment name:
Tutorials and Assignments
Description:
(Formative and summative) - Written solutions to assignment questions and descriptions or presentations of topics.
Relates to objectives:
1 and 2.
Weight:
15%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Late Semester
Assessment name:
Examinations
Description:
(Summative) - A mid-semester and an end-of-semester examination.
Relates to objectives:
1 and 2.
Weight:
55%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Exam Period
Academic Honesty
QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.
A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.
Resource materials
Texts:
1. Cullity BD & Stock SR (2001) Elements of X-Ray Diffraction, 3rd edition, Prentice-Hall
2. Willard HH, et al (1988) Instrumental Methods of Analysis, 7th edition, Wadsworth
3. Suryanarayana C (1998) X-Ray Diffraction: A Practical Approach, Plenum Press
4. Eisberg R & Resnick R (1985) Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei and Particles, J Wiley
5. Thorne AP (1988) Spectrophysics, Chapman and Hall
6. Watt IM (1997) The Principles and Practice of Electron Microscopy, 2nd edition, Cambridge
7. Lyman CE, et al (2003) Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Microanalysis, 3rd edition, Springer
Risk assessment statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with this unit; you will attend lectures and practicals in traditional classrooms and lecture theatres. You will however attend laboratory sessions in QUT laboratories. Prior to the start of these sessions you will be advised of the relevant workplace health and safety issues and requirements associated with these sessions.
Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.
Last modified: 19-Oct-2012
