📝 Assignments

Research and write a detailed essay (minimum 1500 words) on the contributions of ancient Indian scholars to chemistry. Cover: (a) Life and work of any two of Nagarjuna, Vagbhata, or Govindacharya; (b) Chemical processes described in Charak Sanhita related to metallurgy or dyes; (c) Relevance of these contributions to modern chemistry. Include at least 5 references.

A boiler feed water sample is provided with given hardness parameters. Solve the following problems: (a) Calculate temporary and permanent hardness using given ionic concentrations (use EDTA method formula); (b) Determine the type of water softening process most suitable and justify with calculations; (c) Estimate the amount of lime and soda required per 1000 litres for the lime-soda process; (d) Discuss scale and sludge formation in boilers with reference to this sample.

Prepare and deliver a 10–15 minute PowerPoint presentation on nanomaterials and their engineering applications. Cover: (a) Preparation methods (top-down, bottom-up); (b) Unique properties at nanoscale (quantum effects, surface-to-volume ratio); (c) Applications in at least 3 engineering fields (electronics, medicine, energy); (d) Carbon nanotubes – structure and significance; (e) Environmental and safety concerns.

Prepare a comprehensive comparison table for the following polymers: Nylon 6,6 · Teflon · Bakelite · Kevlar · Dacron. For each polymer, cover: (a) Monomer(s); (b) Type (addition/condensation); (c) Thermoplastic or thermosetting; (d) Key properties; (e) Industrial applications; (f) Environmental impact and biodegradability. Conclude with a short essay on conducting polymers and their future in electronics.

Solve the following numerical and analytical problems: (a) A compound has λ_max = 280 nm with ε = 15,000. Calculate the absorbance and transmittance at concentration 10⁻⁴ M (path length = 1 cm); (b) Identify the key IR absorption bands for: –OH, –C=O (ester), –NH₂, –C≡N; (c) Draw Newman projections for the most and least stable conformations of 2-methylbutane; (d) Identify R/S configuration for given chiral centres and draw enantiomers.

(a) Using Dulong's formula, calculate the Gross and Net Calorific Value of a coal sample with the following ultimate analysis: C = 75%, H = 5%, O = 8%, N = 2%, S = 1%, Ash = 9%. Show all steps. (b) Write a short report (≥ 600 words) on biogas production from organic waste: describe the chemistry of anaerobic digestion (4 stages), composition of biogas, and its environmental advantages over fossil fuels.