Catalog Description: Studies of quantum mechanics and atomic structure, chemical bonding, spectroscopy and term symbols, molecular statistics, partition functions, diffraction and crystallography, liquids, surface chemistry, colloids, viscosity and diffusion, and macromolecules.

Prerequisites: CHEM 351 and 351L, MATH 232, and PHYS 252 and 252L; inorganic nomenclature proficiency test.

Offered in the Spring semester. One semester; three credits.

Prerequisites by Topic: Electronic structure of atoms, electronic energy levels, elementary bonding theory (including Lewis structures, molecular geometry, valence-bond theory and orbital hybridization, and molecular orbitals), structures of solids; partial differentiation, multiple integrals; rotational kinematics and dynamics, electric forces, magnetic fields, oscillations and waves, interference, diffraction, introductory quantum theory (including wave functions and the quantum nature of light and matter), waves and particles, and atomic physics.

Corequisite: CHEM 352L.

Goals: This course (along with CHEM 351) is designed to bring together many of the concepts previously learned in a variety of chemistry, physics, and math courses, while synthesizing many new ideas and insights into the workings of the physical universe. From a practical standpoint, Physical Chemistry should prepare students for a number of subsequent courses. Another goal is to demonstrate the subtleties of the scientific method, particularly the manner in which existing theories are refined. It is also hoped that students will further develop their ability to reason analytically and to assimilate and understand a body of scientific knowledge.

Textbook: PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY (3rd Edition) by Keith J. Laidler and John H. Meiser; Houghton Mifflin Company, 1999.

Quantum Mechanics and Atomic Structure

The Chemical Bond

Foundations of Chemical Spectroscopy

Some Modern Applications of Spectroscopy

Molecular Statistics

The Solid State

The Liquid State

Surface Chemistry and Colloids

Transport Properties

Macromolecules

Attendance and punctuality are required.

Four tests and a comprehensive final examination will be administered.