SCI 191 Introductory Science Laboratory

Content

This course is a recommended course for all science majors. Experiments are the foundation of many new discoveries in science and also provide proof for computer modeling results. In this course, typical experiments for the disciplines of chemistry, biochemistry/biology and earth science will be carried out while heeding safety requirements. Experiments include qualitative measurements of caffeine in softdrinks, galvanic and hydrogen fuel cell efficiency measurements, aspirin synthesis and crystallization techniques. Various common analytical techniques are used (Gas and Liquid Chromatography, AAS, Spectrophotometry) and lab techniques practiced (diluting, pipetting, titrating, sampling). The course is a pre-requisite for higher level laboratory courses and for carrying out research projects that require experimental work.

Instructor

Dr. Renata van der Weijden and P. van Rossum, M.Sc.

Track

Labs

Period

Fall / 2008

Evaluation/Assessment

• Lab reports: these are questions that are handed out and need to be answered by the student. Generally, the weighting factor of a lab report = 1.
• Scientific reports: these are journal article-like reports. The weight toward the final grade is 2 or 3 times that of the lab reports.
• The experimental design exercise has the same weighing factor as a laboratory report.
• Lab performance and attendance will count 2/10 towards the final grade.

Course Material

Practical Skills in Chemistry by John Dean et al.

Additional Prerequisites

Preferably high school chemistry

Required for

This course is required in order to take the following courses:

• SCI 226 Biochemistry
• SCI 291 Life Science Laboratory
• SCI 363 Molecular Pathology and Genetics
• SCI 391 Advanced Science Laboratory