Course: Electrochemistry credits: 5

Course code
CHVP23ELEKTROCHM
Name
Electrochemistry
Study year
2023-2024
ECTS credits
5
Language
Dutch, with parts in English
Coordinator
L.A. van Vliet
Modes of delivery
  • Assignment
  • Lecture
  • Practical / Training
  • Project-based learning
  • Teaching method 1
Assessments
  • Practicum - Other assessment
  • Theorie - Written, organised by STAD examinations

Learning outcomes

You understand the principles of electrochemistry, set up (complex) half-reactions and explain the occurrence or non-occurrence of redox reactions in acidic, basic or neutral environments. 

You understand the composition and operation of Galvanic cells and calculate cell voltages using the Nernst equation. You apply this to batteries and fuel cells. 

You perform equilibrium calculations on redox, precipitation and complex formation reactions. 

You explain the influence of poorly soluble salts, complex ions and buffers on electrode potentials and determine the respective Ksp, Kf and Ka from measured cell voltages. 

 

You have knowledge and understanding of solar cell concepts and principles (representing solar cells, naming components, calculating potentials). 

You carry out a project in a group (PI = Professional Identity) according to the scientific method. 

You apply theoretical knowledge about electrochemistry in an independent, safe and responsible way while performing a simple experiment and communicate about this via a logbook and/or measurement report according to the applicable guidelines. 

You reflect on the course of study and the study experience through a mentor lesson, a portfolio and a final personal interview with the mentor and make a planning for the next school year. (PI = personal identity; PO = personal development).
 

DAS competencies 

Competency

Level (I-IV) 

Research

I 

Experimentation

I 

Development

 

Management

 

Advise

 

Instruction 

 

Leadership

 

Self-management  

I 







 

Content

This module focuses on electrochemistry with a number of applications. We start by refreshing high school knowledge: what is a reductor and oxidiser and when does a redox reaction occur? Then you learn to derive half-reactions for complex oxidisers and reductors. We discuss in detail Galvanic cells and their practical application: batteries and fuel cells. Using Nernst's law, you learn to calculate the voltage given by a battery. 

In the second half of this module, we continue calculating saturated solutions (Ksp) and solution the contain a complexion (Kf) and we start calculating the acid dissociation constant (Ka) using electrochemical reactions. Theory will also cover the solar cell project. 

 

In the practical, you will apply the theory with the performance of basic electrochemical experiments, the "Daniell cell" and a solar cell project.  

For the mentorship, you will write a portfolio and conduct a final interview with your mentor. 

It is desirable to have taken the modules Chemical Calculus, Chemical Equilibria and Chemical Bonding.

Included in programme(s)

School(s)

  • Institute for Life Science & Technology
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