CHEM 302(S) Physical Chemistry: Structure and Dynamics

This course integrates a number of physical chemistry topics. An introduction to quantum mechanics provides students with the basis for understanding molecular structure. Statistical mechanics is then used to demonstrate the formal and quantitative link between the properties of single molecules and the thermodynamic and kinetic behavior of macroscopic collections of molecules. Rate laws, enzyme kinetics, and transport properties are discussed. Applications of these principles are chosen from a variety of areas, including polymer chemistry, biochemistry, photochemistry, and solid and liquid state chemistry. Quantitative laboratory experiments and consultation with the scientific literature provide the background necessary for carrying out an independent theoretical or experimental project. Format: lectures, three hours a week; laboratory, four hours a week. Evaluation is based on problem sets, laboratory work, two hour tests, and a final exam. Prerequisite: Chemistry 301, or Chemistry 155 and 251/255. May be taken concurrently with Chemistry 256 with permission of instructor. No enrollment limit (expected: 10).

Hour: BINGEMANN