A melting point is a characteristic physical property of a substance. So melting point analysis is one of the simplest and most useful techniques for identification of a chemical substance. Melting point depression Melting point (m.p.) analysis can also provide information
5 skills that blogging gives students
Blogging has given me a new set of skills. Now that I’m applying for an industrial placement, I’m wondering how this will benefit me in a working environment. Five years ago, student author Hayley Russell started a personal blog. During this time,
How to calculate solution dilution
As chemists, we often need to dilute solutions from a stock solution. Although dilution calculations can seem like a bit of a pain at first – once you’ve got them down you’ll be diluting your samples in no time.
Are you getting the most out of your lectures?
Taking your own notes is a skill you need to develop while you’re an undergrad. So if you’re in your early years, don’t rely on printed handouts for the rest of your degree. The lecture is where you can pick
Study hints for first class grades
We asked 5 different students who all achieved first-class grades in 3rd year to explain how they use different revision techniques. We found that different methods work for different people. Which one works best for you? Really understanding the subject
Student’s t-Test – a significant difference?
This is the 2nd article in our series on ‘errors’ and a continuation of the article ‘All About Errors‘. The ambition is that this article should be self-contained. However some concepts, such as standard deviation, are discussed in more detail
5 reasons to sign up as class rep
With a new semester rolling around, a new opportunity will arise. Course organizers will soon be asking students to volunteer as class rep. It’s a great opportunity to add to your CV, develop some transferable skills, and get to know your
How to interpret a flame test
Flame tests are a very easy way to distinguish between ionic metal salts. Learning how to interpret their results is an important skill for chemistry students. When energy is applied (in this case from the flame) electrons in the metal
Guide to recrystallisation
Recrystallisation is one of the most common techniques used in chemistry to purify a compound. Choosing your solvent When conducting a recrystallisation it is very important that you select the correct solvent. If you are following a procedure, it will
It’s exam season – are you ready?
Original article by Dom Gibson Feb 2014 Updated by Dr. Allison Kirsop, November 2016. Thought I’d bring this one to the front again seeing as it’s that time of year! With exams just around the corner, here are a few
What is drug discovery?
Drug discovery is a term that you’ll hear a lot in chemistry classes but what does it mean? Medicinal chemistry is the search for new active ingredients for medicines and is an important branch of chemistry. Many universities offer specific degrees
Writing your first literature review
Writing your first literature review can be daunting, and getting started is often the hardest part. This article explains how to approach your first literature review and gives some tips on what to include and what to avoid. If you’re