Core Inorganic and Physical Chemistry for Forensic Science - FSCI4003

Looking for a different module?

Module delivery information

Location Term Level1 Credits (ECTS)2 Current Convenor3 2026 to 2027
Canterbury
Summer Term 4 20 (10) Aaron Hillier checkmark-circle

Overview

Inorganic and physical chemistry play a key role in underpinning broad areas of the forensic and analytical sciences, including identification of unknown substances, key biological processes and the chemical analysis of trace evidence. This module will provide you an understanding of the core range of inorganic and physical chemistry that underpins forensic analysis. This will include an understanding of the states, stability and reactivity of matter and the patterns amongst the elements across the periodic table that are responsible for properties such as colour. It will also equip you with the key mathematical concepts necessary to understand and solve problems in these areas of chemistry.

Details

Contact hours

Lecture 28 hours, Workshop 4 hours

Method of assessment

2 hours Test. Assessment Details: VLE Test worth 20%.
1,500 words Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: Problem Sheet worth 20%.
2 hours Exam. Assessment Details: Exam worth 60%.

Reassessment Method: Like-for-like

Indicative reading

Learning outcomes

On successfully completing the module, students will be able to: 


1. Describe core scientific concepts, terminology, conventions and methods associated with inorganic and physical chemistry.

2. Discuss fundamental areas of chemistry including properties of chemical elements, states of matter, thermodynamics and reactivity.

3. Communicate and apply essential concepts and theories of inorganic and physical chemistry to solve qualitative and quantitative problems.

4. Solve chemical problems by the interpretation of scientific information and data and the application of fundamental inorganic and physical chemistry theory.

Notes

  1. Credit level 4. Certificate level module usually taken in the first stage of an undergraduate degree.
  2. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  3. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
Back to top

University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.