CHEM-T 540 Physical Chemistry (Graduate)

This course will touch on all the fundamental areas of Physical Chemistry (kinetics, thermodynamics, equilibrium, quantum). Knowing that one course cannot sufficiently cover all the areas of physical chemistry in one semester, focus and emphasis is on content that expands the students’ knowledge in these key areas beyond what is expected at undergraduate level, and relates to concepts that are likely to be taught in high school and introductory chemistry courses. A key aspect will be to develop students’ understanding of advanced physical chemistry concepts and ability to apply this knowledge towards fundamental chemistry concepts and problems through quantitative problem solving, discussions and presentations.

The course will follow the molecular approach to physical chemistry, beginning with the quantum mechanical description of matter before proceeding to bulk properties. 

• Quantum Mechanics
  • Historical background, postulates and general principles of the quantum mechanics
  • Schrodinger equation and a particle in a box
  • Atomic and molecular structure (chemical bonding)
  • Spectroscopy (Microwave, IR, NMR)
• Thermodynamics & Equilibrium
  • Equation of State, First & Second Laws of Thermodynamics
  • Thermodynamics in engines and refrigeration
  • Chemical Equilibrium
  • Thermodynamics of pure systems and mixtures
  • Phase equilibria

• Chemical Kinetics
  • Fundamentals of reaction rates, rate laws
  • Nonelementary reaction kinetics
  • Influence of reactor type, transport limitations and phase equilibria on reaction rates

Prerequisite: None

Related Offerings:
CHEM T 520 Organic Synthesis (Spring 2020)
CHEM-T 530 Organic Spectroscopy (Fall 2020)
CHEM-T 540 Physical Chemistry (Fall 2020)
CHEM T 590 Chemistry Capstone (Summer I 2020)