Physics and Chemistry of Surfaces

2024/2025

Recommended prerequisite for participation in the module

The module is built on knowledge obtained in the area of General and Physical Chemistry.

Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

Aim of the course is to provide knowledge about specific aspects as well as physical and chemical phenomena occurring at surfaces and interfaces.

Learning objectives

Knowledge

• Structure of crystalline surfaces as well as the methods and techniques for their preparation and characterisation;
• basic thermodynamics and kinetics of surface processes including phenomena of surface tension and adsorption/desorption;
• major interaction forces near the interfaces including van der Waals and double-layer forces;
• physi- and chemi-sorption at surfaces and catalysis;
• structure of interfaces, wetting theory, hydrophobicity, membranes and growth of thin films;
• reactions at interfaces and electrochemistry.

Skills

The student will become skilled in solving problems within the topics listed above and will be able to apply theories and methods of surface physics and chemistry.

Competences

Competencies that are acquired develop and strengthen the knowledge and understanding of theory and methods in surface science, as well as their applications. Based on the skills acquired in this module the student should be able to reflect on and discuss topics from surface science.

Type of instruction

Lectures supported by problem solving classes.

Extent and expected workload

This is a 5 ECTS course module and the work load is expected to be 150 hours for the student.
 

Exam

Prerequisite for enrollment for the exam

  • Hand in/presentation and approval of assignments is a prerequisite for participation in the final exam.

Exams

Name of examPhysics and Chemistry of Surfaces
Type of exam
Written or oral exam
ECTS5
Assessment7-point grading scale
Type of gradingInternal examination
Criteria of assessmentThe criteria of assessment are stated in the Examination Policies and Procedures

Facts about the module

Danish titleOverfladefysik og -kemi (B)
Module codeF-FYS-K2-5A
Module typeCourse
Duration1 semester
SemesterSpring
ECTS5
Language of instructionEnglish
Empty-place SchemeYes
Location of the lectureCampus Aalborg
Responsible for the module

Organisation

Study BoardStudy Board of Mechanical Engineering and Physics
DepartmentDepartment of Materials and Production
FacultyThe Faculty of Engineering and Science