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Module Outline:

The aims of this course are to develop further quantum mechanics and thermodynamics and to extend the material of Year 1 Basic Physical Chemistry to spectroscopy, statistical mechanics and kinetics.

Module Aims:

At the end of the module students should be able to:

1. Apply the fundamental postulates of quantum mechanics to problems with exact and approximate solutions and use molecular orbital theory with diatomic molecules and Hückel theory with π electron systems to derive energy levels, visualise molecular orbitals and relate to bond order and electron density.

2. Apply understanding of quantum mechanics to derive expressions for the rotational and vibrational energy levels of molecules and use this information to learn how to obtain information about bond lengths and strengths from rotational, vibrational and electronic spectra of diatomic molecules.

3. Apply understanding of molecular rotational, vibrational and electronic energy levels and employ the principles of statistical mechanics to derive macroscopic (thermodynamic) quantities.

4. Explain the properties and behaviours of mixtures using thermodynamics.

5. Build on earlier material and Year 1 kinetic theory of gases to develop and use the stationary state approximation to study unimolecular, linear and branched chain reactions.

7. Perform calculations and analysis using data collected in the laboratory, present the data clearly and interpret what it means.

8 Plan next steps in experimental investigations and form a hypothesis.

9. Use a range of computational approaches to model systems applied to Physical Chemistry.

Teaching and Learning Methods:

Lectures: The topics will be introduced through a blended delivery of in-person lectures with online activities and support hours.

Tutorials: Your learning is supported by weekly tutorials lead by an academic staff member, the questions for which will be available on Moodle in advance. It is expected that you review the lecture material and attempt the questions prior to attending the tutorial. Tutorials are designed as an opportunity to receive feedback on your understanding of the module material, hence preparation is essential if you wish to derive the most benefit. Tutorial attendance is monitored and compulsory.

Self-study: In addition to timetabled hours it is expected that you engage in self-study in order to master the material. This can take the form of practicing example questions (tutorial questions, additional questions available on Moodle and past exam questions); preparing for laboratory sessions and writing up reports and further reading in textbooks and online.

Laboratories: There are two lab courses associated with this module, which typically consist of: (1) a computational lab course consisting of workshops, and (2) an experimental lab course consisting of practicals and complementary data processing exercises. Associated to these lab course, there is also an Academic Writing exercise. These activities support understanding of the module material as well as teaching essential skills for a practicing chemist. As laboratory related skills are an essential aspect of this programme, attendance to these sessions is monitored and compulsory.