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University of Leeds

Discovering Science: Chemical Products

University of Leeds via FutureLearn

Overview

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For centuries natural materials have been used by people to meet their daily needs. Discover how scientists are using their knowledge of the molecular structure of naturally occurring compounds to develop new and exciting materials. From clothing to tooth enamel, the possibilities are endless. You’ll also consider the chemistry behind the development of everyday consumer, and consider the ethics behind the products you use.

The course is suitable for anyone with a general interest in chemistry; no previous knowledge or experience is required.

If you are working in the field of science and would like to practice and improve your science writing skills, this course is designed to support you as a professional. By completing all aspects of the course you will have achieved 14 hours of CPD time.

If you intend to complete the Discovering Science collection of online courses, it is recommended that you complete Discovering Science: Science Writing before starting this course, however, this course can still be studied independently.

Syllabus

  • From biomaterials to bio-inspired materials
    • Welcome
    • Historical perspectives
    • Science in action
    • Future perspectives
    • Revision
    • Summary
  • Consumer products
    • About Week 2
    • Historical perspectives
    • Science in action
    • Future perspectives
    • Revision
    • Summary

Taught by

Paul Taylor

Reviews

4.2 rating, based on 6 Class Central reviews

4.5 rating at FutureLearn based on 23 ratings

Start your review of Discovering Science: Chemical Products

  • Anonymous
    As a retired industrial chemist, my main interest was in keeping my knowledge up to date and to find new areas of knowledge that I did not have previously. For anyone considering studying chemistry, and I hope there are many, it was a good starter course providing a background to some of the many topics covered by the general term 'chemistry'. For a beginner, the glossary is essential, as is regular reference to online sources for clarification of other terms used. This would be no more than would be expected of a student studying any serious subject. Overall, an enjoyable course and well worth the time invested in it. Thank you Leeds University and FutureLearn.
  • Anonymous
    This is the very first online class I have taken in my life. I was afraid I can't follow up the lessons but while I learn days by days it is more interesting and can cover the topics with various knowledgeable explanations than I think. Though I can't upgrade this class, I appreciate for two weeks free learning lessons and to all the professors and also the University of Leeds. This class is also good that can allow and train me in writing research task and newspaper article. I also enjoy reading other peers' work. After finishing all lessons, I am going to share about this lessons to my friends and join to next interesting classes as well.
  • Profile image for Uzair Shah
    Uzair Shah
    When i was starting this course i have a vision to understand about the chemistry of household products. I can say that i have get the idea that i wanted by learning this course. It was very helpful for me. The things which increases the beauty are quizzes and tasks given. Those tasks have expanded my knowledge. The instructors have broadened our way of seeing things. And i become a fan of bruce. Bruce was perfect.
  • Anonymous
    The course is designed in nice manner.It is user friendly and some of the concepts like spider goat I first time get introduced.Bio inspired materials are really interesing.Thank you for all this information.
  • Anonymous
    It was very informative and has taught me a lot I didn't know before, it also made me more sure that I want to do chemistry at degree level so I can learn the information in further detail.
  • Anonymous
    I've always loved to explore more in chemistry and it's product and love the idea behind this course.Infact it's going to help me greatly.

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