CHM2181 Introduction to the chemistry of energy
Faculty of Science
CHM2181 Introduction to the chemistry of energy is a level 2, 6-credit-point, undergraduate unit from the Faculty of Science, offered in 2027 in Semester 1 at Clayton. It has no prerequisites.
- Credit points
- 6
- Offered in 2027
- Semester 1
- Clayton
- Assessment
- Exam 50%
- and 2 other tasks
- Workload
- 144 hours
- per semester
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Requisites
Before CHM2181
No prerequisites or corequisites besides the enrolment rules below.
After CHM2181
No unit lists CHM2181 as a prerequisite in the 2027 handbook.
Enrolment rules
PREREQUISITE: CHM1011 or CHM1051 and CHM1022 or CHM1052
Overview
This unit provides foundational knowledge of energy principles and their role in sustainable development. You will explore fundamental energy concepts, energy conversion and storage mechanisms, and the chemistry underlying energy systems. The unit emphasises sustainability in energy technologies, examining renewable and conventional energy sources from environmental, economic, and social perspectives. Topics include life cycle assessment (LCA) methodologies for evaluating the environmental impact of energy systems. Through practical examples and case studies, you will develop critical thinking skills to assess energy solutions and understand the chemical principles essential for transitioning to sustainable energy futures.
Offerings in 2027
| Teaching period | Campus | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| First semester | Clayton | On campus |
Assessment
- Weekly quizzesQuiz / Test10%
- LaboratoryDemonstrationCompetency hurdle40%
- Final Assessment - Examination (2 hours)Examination50%
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Learning outcomes
When you finish this unit, you should be able to:
- 1
Explain fundamental energy concepts including thermodynamic principles, energy conversion, and energy storage mechanisms;
- 2
Evaluate different energy sources and technologies in terms of their sustainability, efficiency, and environmental impact;
- 3
Understand life cycle assessment methodologies, environmental and carbon footprints and energy efficiency metrics for various energy processes;
- 4
Critically assess the role of chemistry in developing sustainable energy solutions and supporting decarbonisation efforts;
- 5
Foster the acquisition of practical skills through an inquiry-based approach to the chemistry laboratory experience, and build independent competency, teamwork and communication skills;
- 6
Communicate energy-related concepts and sustainability analyses effectively using appropriate scientific terminology.
Workload and teaching
- Laboratories36 hours
- Tutorials12 hours
- Workshops24 hours
- Teaching approachActive learning
- Teaching approachCase-based teaching
- Teaching approachProblem-based learning
An average of 12 hours per week (144 hours per semester) consisting of:
2 hours workshops;
1 hour tutorial;
3 hours laboratory and
6 hours of independent study per week.
The unit will use an active learning approach in workshops combined with applied tutorials focused on case-based learning. Real-world examples from energy technologies, both renewable and conventional energy sources will be used to illustrate the interface between chemistry, energy and sustainability. Active learning exercises will support life cycle analysis approached as applied to energy.
Case-based applied tutorials with feature real-world examples of chemistry applied in energy systems both renewable and conventional.
Problem-based learning will be explored in the laboratory exercises and through theoretical concepts and will enable the development of relevant observation and descriptive skills, as well as communication skills.
Learning resources
Required resources
You will require access to standard Monash library services and databases, software applications and tools.
No specific textbooks or other externally-purchased resources will be mandated.
Recommended resources
Peter Atkins, Julio de Paula, and James Keeler, “Physical Chemistry”, Oxford University Press, 12th edition, 2023. Earlier editions are also fine.
Technology resources
Access to a laptop with regular Monash software, database and virtual-environment applications.
No specific new or bespoke technology needs are anticipated for the implementation of this unit.
Contacts
- Chief Examiners
- Dr Drasko Vidovic
Common questions
What are the prerequisites for CHM2181?
CHM2181 has no prerequisites, but enrolment rules apply.
When is CHM2181 offered?
In 2027, CHM2181 runs in Semester 1 at Clayton.
How much work is CHM2181?
The handbook expects about 144 hours of study across the semester. No students have rated its difficulty yet.
Does CHM2181 have an exam?
Yes. The exam is worth 50% of the final mark, alongside 2 other tasks.
More details
- Credit points
- 6
- Level
- 2
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Faculty
- Faculty of Science
- Organisational unit
- School of Chemistry
- Type
- Coursework
- EFTSL
- 0.125
- Student contribution
- SCA Band 2
- Study abroad
- Not available
- Handbook years
- 2027