Using Computers in Analytical Chemistry Courses at CSUSB:

Chem 245: Quantitative Analysis

Chemistry 245 Use of Computer Laboratory:

1) Students learn to use Excel spreadsheets using data from a pH titration
of a soda ash sample with HCl (data = pH vs. mL titrant).  They are taught
how to use formulas referencing cells, drag and fill, how to graph, etc.,
in a lab session with the instructor.  They calculate the derivative curve,
associate the end point with inflection point in the data, and use it in
further calculations to determine %Na2CO3.

2) Students learn to use the LINEST function in Excel, including the
"Trendline" function, as well as outputting all of the regression
statistics.  Students must use this skill to analyze data from four experiments,
and one homework problem.

3) Students inevitably use Word to write their laboratory reports, and
often use Excel to organize their data for other experiments in addition to
those referenced above.

4) The textbook used for this class, "Analytical Chemistry - An
Introduction" by Skoog, West, Holler and Crouch extensively uses Excel
spreadsheet examples.  Much instruction in Excel is given.  Some students
take advantage of this additional instruction throughout the course.

Students leave Chem 245 fairly proficient in the use of Excel in
organizing, illustrating, and analyzing scientific data.  It is very
helpful to have the lab close by.  The students use it extensively, they
can help each other easily, and walk down the hall to my office for
assistance when needed.

For further information, contact Brett Stanley.

Chem 545: Advanced Analytical Chemistry

  A LabWorks station is used to collect titration data using a platinum
electrode refereced to a Ag/AgCl electrode, and a drop counter underneath
the buret.  The data is collected, and easily transported to Excel for
analysis of end points using the skills learned in Chem 245.  A sample data
analysis spreadsheet, is provided to both classes.

Independently, the students use Excel and Word to write their lab reports.
At this upper-division level, students are allowed the freedom to use
whatever platform or machine they are most comfortable with.  Many use
their own computers at home.

A complex equilibria experiment using MathCad is being designed for use in the next offering of this course.
 

For further information, contact Brett Stanley.


















Computer use in Physical Chemistry Courses at CSUSB

Microsoft Excel (or equivalent) is used to organize, analyze, and plot data from all experiments. Tables and graphs are imported into MS Word (or equivalent) for written reports. Students use subscripts and superscripts and the equation builder, as well, to prepare reports.

As part of a spectroscopy experiment, students PCSpartan Pro to calculate and view molecular vibrations in conjunction with obtaining spectra instrumentally.

Students use an in-house program to computationally model smog, and must write and run a simple program using MS Basic.

Computer applications are an integral part of the physical chemistry laboratory, and no student without adequate proficiency can be expected to pass the laboratory portion of the course.

For further information, contact Ken Mantei