Stockholm university
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Optical spectroscopy in analytical chemistry

In this course we will study optical spectroscopy methods commonly used by analytical chemists for compound identification and quantification.

The course covers atomic and molecular spectroscopy methods. The course also covers the underlying principles of these methods, as well as instrumental components and setups. This is contextualised with application examples and case studies. Students plan and carry out laboratory based projects to obtain hands-on experience with the instruments.

  • Course structure

    The course features lectures, workshops, laboratory project work, oral and written presentation of scientific work within the following subjects:

    Atomic spectroscopy methods
    Building on previous basic knowledge of these techniques, the course will cover atomic absorption and atomic emission spectroscopy as well as inductively coupled plasma (ICP) based methods. We will revise the underpinning concepts and consider the  instrumental setup of these methods. The course will focus on building a deeper understanding of the wide range of applications of these techniques in the analysis of water, food, environmental and clinical samples.

    Molecular spectroscopy methods 
    Building on previous basic knowledge of molecular spectroscopy techniques, we will cover UV/Vis spectroscopy, infrared (IR), fluorescence and Raman spectroscopy. We will revise the underpinning concepts and consider the  instrumental setup of these methods. The course will focus on building a deeper understanding of the wide range of applications of these techniques in the analysis of clinical and environmental samples.

    Modules

    Theory (3 ECTS)
    Lab (2 ECTS)

    Teaching format

    The teaching consists of lectures, seminars, exercises and laboratories.

    After completing the course, the student is expected to be able to:

    Theory

    • Demonstrate an understanding of the underpinning theory of atomic and molecular spectroscopy methods,
    • Describe instruments and instrument components used for the studied spectroscopy techniques,
    • Recall principles of suitable sample preparation methods,
    • Critically evaluate the merit of different spectroscopy techniques and their application for a given analysis task,
    • Select and justify appropriate techniques for chemical analyses, molecular measurements or data analyses

    Lab

    • safely operate analytical instruments by applying academic knowledge in a laboratory and solve and trouble shoot practical challenges with spectroscopy instruments
    • retrieve information online to plan laboratory projects
    • propose and optimise a workflow with spectroscopy analysis relevant to real-world analytical chemistry challenges
    • interpret analytical data
    • communicate experimental findings at a professional standard to peers
    • write accurate and coherent reports of experiments
    • effectively conduct work in teams

    Assessment

    Theory: Written exam
    Lab: Written lab reports

    Examination in English

  • Schedule

    The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course.
  • Course reports

  • Contact

    Course coordinator and examiner
    Chemistry Section & Student Affairs Office