Thermal Analysis Across the Undergraduate Chemistry Curriculum

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Chemistry (12) Thermal analysis involves monitoring the behavior of a compound as a function of temperature, and techniques such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) are used extensively as characterization tools in materials science research. We are adapting experiments from the research and educational literature and are developing new experiments, all of which utilize thermal analysis techniques that can be carried out using our new DSC and TGA instruments. These experiments are being implemented in laboratory courses across our chemistry curriculum (organic, physical, inorganic, polymer, and biochemistry). For example, students determine the kinetic parameters associated with polymer degradation using TGA in physical chemistry, and analyze protein denaturation using DSC in biochemistry. Our goal is to have students gain experience with thermal analysis techniques, and develop an appreciation for the applicability of these techniques to a wide range of problems. Students also are using the DSC and TGA instruments in their undergraduate research projects. Evaluation of the project is occurring in a number of ways, including pre- and post-exposure assessment in the affected courses, and compilation of data from exit interviews of our senior majors. Procedures for the new experiments are being made available on the internet, and tested experiments also will be published in the appropriate journals.