Code
CHEN2001
Credits
25
Graduate Attributes
Introduction
This unit aims to equip chemical, energy and metallurgical engineers in understanding the fundamental laws of thermodynamics that underpin the transfer and containment of energy in various forms. This unit, in line with current research and university values, strives to achieve a positive and inclusive educational environment. This supports improved academic performance, increased confidence and creates a greater sense of safety and belonging. Your teaching team is committed to providing a safe and inclusive learning experience and requires students to take reasonable and appropriate measures to actively eliminate discrimination on the basis of ability; cultural and social background; and diverse sex, sexuality, and gender
Lecture
2 x 2 Hours Weekly
Workshop
1 x 1.5 Hours Weekly
Unit Learning Outcomes
- 1 differentiate between various forms of energy, apply the concept of state functions and use the 1st Law of Thermodynamics to perform an energy balance, GC1, GC3
- 2 apply the concepts of chemical equilibrium to predict the outcome of chemical reactions, and explain how fuel cells work, GC1, GC3
- 3 reflect on the concept of entropy to apply the 2nd Law to a number of systems, and analyse relationships between thermodynamic properties using Maxwell's relations, GC1, GC3
- 4 apply the concept of vapour-liquid equilibrium for ideal, non-ideal and dilute solutions, and perform equilibrium and flash calculations, GC1, GC3
- 5 reflect on the use virial expansions and cubic models to calculate properties of gases and liquids, and apply correlations to estimate the gas compressibility factor, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC6
- 6 calculate the efficiency of heat engines and performance of heat pumps, using basic Rankine and refrigeration cycles, and understand their relationship to Carnot cycles, GC1, GC2, GC3, GC6
Course Learning Outcomes
- 1 Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of fundamental science, mathematics, data analytics, information science, and computing underpinning the broad field of engineering
- 2 Solve complex chemical engineering problems of industrial and societal significance through the application of discipline-specific and integrated bodies of knowledge, design and sustainability principles
Assessment Breakdown
Recent Unit Changes & Response to Student Feedback
Students are encouraged to provide feedback through student surveys (such as Insight and the annual Student Experience Survey) and interactions with teaching staff. Listed below are some recent changes to the unit as a result of student feedback. Students have found the Blackboard eTests very useful for learning throughout the semester, and therefore these will be maintained. We will attempt to make solution thermodynamics a bit more practically relevant, along with more practical examples of thermodynamic applications. However, keep in mind that this is a unit with fundamental concepts that will be built on in later years. Student feedback regarding the effectiveness of the test and exam as summative assessements is that the prelearning via multiple types of examples, critical thinking developed and problem-solving skills developed have been very useful as assessment for and of learning.