Experimental chemistry

Chemistry is an experimental science. The aim of this practical module is to use experiments to illustrate a number of theoretical concepts covered in the BSc Chemistry course (L2 and early S5 in particular), in a way that complements the other experimental chemistry modules offered in L1 and L2 Chemistry.

Following on from the experimental chemistry modules offered in L1 and L2 Chemistry, the aim of this module is to train students in good laboratory practice (H&S aspects and organization of experimental work in small groups), in the correct implementation of L-level experimental techniques, and in the analysis of results and their synthesis/enhancement in the form of reports.

A specific program for each pathway (SCV, SCM and DNO prep) is proposed to ensure the greatest possible coherence with the pedagogical vocation of each thematic orientation of L3 Chemistry. 

For the SCV pathway, the main focus will be on organic chemistry, with the integration of complementary approaches to physical and macromolecular chemistry.

For the SCM pathway, teaching will integrate numerous sub-disciplines: inorganic chemistry, inorganic materials, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry and macromolecular chemistry, with the aim of offering cross-disciplinary approaches between most of these sub-disciplines.  

For the DNO prep course, the focus will be on inorganic chemistry and physical chemistry, with preparatory practical exercises complementing the practical work.

• Theoretical knowledge of organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, macromolecular chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry acquired in the Chemistry Baccalaureate (L1, L2, beginning of S5).
• Good laboratory practice skills acquired in L1 and L2 Chemistry.
• Ability to write and summarize reports on practical work.
• Ability to work in a team (two or three people).

Continuous assessment (evaluation of practical reports, practical examination, final written examination)

For the SCV course :

• implementation of reliable operating procedures for some of the major organic chemistry reactions covered in the course (e.g. Cannizzaro, Beckmann, Fisher, Friedel & Craft, Mitsunobu, etc.), with particular emphasis on understanding the various stages of synthesis/characterization (reaction, processing, purification, ^1H, ^13Cand mass NMR analyses);
• complementary illustrations from physical chemistry (calorimetric and kinetic monitoring of organic chemistry reactions) and macromolecular chemistry (polymer synthesis, kinetic monitoring of polymerization and characterization of polymers in solution).

For SCM and DNO prep courses:

• Inorganic chemistry (SCM and DNO prep): solution synthesis and characterization (UV/vis spectroscopy, FTIR) of mineral products;
• inorganic materials section (SCM): synthesis and characterization (ATG, DRX, MEB-EDX) of inorganic materials;
• Analytical chemistry (SCM): illustrations of ion chromatography, atomic absorption and UV/Vis spectroscopy techniques;
• chemistry-physics (SCM and DNO prep): calorimetric and kinetic monitoring of chemical reactions, thermodynamic treatment of liquid-liquid extraction in an experimental organic chemistry context;
• macromolecular chemistry (SCM): synthesis and characterization of polymers in solution.

The chronology and degree of integration of these different strands will be optimized (a common thread around _CuSO4 in particular is envisaged) with a view to raising students' awareness of the links between the various sub-disciplines of chemistry.