Discovering Science: Chemical Products

Online Course

University of Leeds

Future Learn

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Discovering Science: Chemical Products

What is the course about?
Prerequisites & Facts
Cost, Certificate & Degree
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What is the course about?

Discovering Science: Chemical Products

The course Discovering Science: Chemical Products is an online class provided by University of Leeds through Future Learn. It may be possible to receive a verified certification or use the course to prepare for a degree.

With chemistry providing us an endless amount of possibilities, what would you choose to develop?

Course description

2 weeks

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.

Everyday biomaterials and their molecular properties.
The molecular structure of wool and silk and how this has developed over the last century.
The influence of natural materials on the development of man-made fibres.
The potential uses of self-assembling peptides within the human body.
The creation of hydrogels from self-assembling peptides.
The development of synthetic spider silk.
The future of bio-inspired materials.
The creation of composite biomaterials that combine organic and inorganic components.
Assignment: prepare a press release to communicate the science of ‘composite bio-inspired materials’.
The science and environmental impact of everyday household products.
The evolution of effective, safe and economical products.
The use of surfactants in household products.
The chemistry of hair dyes and how they are tested and regulated.
The significance of the chemical industry.
The complexity between scientific fact and public perception of consumer products.
Parabens and the controversy that surrounds their use as preservatives.
Construct a science writing text.
Assignment: prepare a newspaper article about the controversy around the use of parabens.

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 program, it is recommended that you complete Discovering Science: Science Writing before starting this course, however this course can still be studied independently.

University of Leeds
As one of the UK’s largest research-based universities, the University of Leeds is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and a centre of excellence for teaching.

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Prerequisites & Facts

Discovering Science: Chemical Products

Course Topic

Chemistry, Science, Engineering & Maths

University, College, Institution

University of Leeds

Course Skill Level

see course summary

Course Language

English

Place of class

Online, self-paced (see curriculum for more information)

Degree

Certificate

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Degree & Cost

Discovering Science: Chemical Products

To obtain a verified certificate from Future Learn / University of Leeds you have to finish this course or the latest version of it, if there is a new edition. The class may be free of charge, but there could be some cost to receive a verified certificate or to access the learning materials. The specifics of the course may have been changed, please consult the provider to get the latest quotes and news.

University of Leeds

Discovering Science: Chemical Products

provided by Future Learn

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