Lecturer: Dr David Davis
Mr David Davis comes from a village in South Wales called Llanboidy. He pursued his undergraduate degree at Downing College, University of Cambridge and is currently working towards obtaining his Ph.D in Physical Chemistry within the field of Surface Science and Catalysis. His research project involves collaboration with BOC, with the aim of producing gas sensors for the semiconductor industry. David has extensive experience in teaching undergraduate Cambridge Chemistry course, covering a wide range of topics from organic chemistry to thermodynamics. He has supervised students from both Downing and Newnham College.
Basic organic chemistry:
How to draw organic molecules.
Introduction of the following functionalities: alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, ketones, aldehydes, esters, ethers, alcohols and carboxylic acids.
Systematic naming of molecules containing the functional groups named above.
Spectroscopy:
What is NMR?
How can NMR be used to determine chemical environments?
Simple assignment of structures from NMR data.
Introduction to infra-red spectroscopy.
How can infra-red absorption frequencies be rationalised in terms of bond strengths.
Time permitting, a brief sample of the study of surface science:
What is surface science and why do we study it?
Temperature programmed desorption.
70 % for written test
30 % assessment during supervision
Please note, except for the first book in this list, these titles are for reference and general interest only. They do not necessarily relate to any A-level work being studied at present. Extensive knowledge of these books is not essential for the course.
Advanced Modular Sciences, Chemistry AS Level.
Authors: L.Nicholls and M.Ratcliffe
Publisher: Collins
Foundations of Organic Chemistry, Oxford Chemistry Primer Series (No.9).
Authors: M.Hornby and J.Peach
Publisher: Oxford University Press.
Introduction to Organic Spectroscopy, Oxford Chemistry Primer Series (No.43).
Authors: L.Harwood and D.Claridge
Publisher: Oxford University Press.
Surfaces, Oxford Chemistry Primer Series (No. 59)
Authors: G.Attard and C.Barnes
Publisher: Oxford University Press.