CH3P1NU-Advanced Topics in Physical Chemistry 1

Module Provider: Chemistry
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Semesters in which taught: Semester 1 module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: Available at the NUIST-ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø Academy only
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Joanne Elliott
Email: j.m.elliott@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Study advanced physical chemistry in-depth.Ìý On this module you will develop your understanding of colloids, electrode kinetics, quantum mechanics and chemical kinetics.Ìý In lectures you will learn key concepts and in workshops you will explore your understanding.

Module Lead:ÌýHui CaoÌý(yccaoh@hotmail.com)

Aims:

The overall aim of the module is to introduce the student to advanced topics in physical chemistry relating to colloids, electrode kinetics, quantum mechanics and chemical kinetics.

Assessable learning outcomes:

Students should be able to discuss the fabrication of colloidal systems, factors affecting colloid stability, double layer theory and electrode kinetics.

Students should be able to discuss the main features of collision theory and transition state theory. They should demonstrate a quantitative understanding of the factors affecting the terms in the Arrhenius equation.Ìý

Students should be able demonstrate an understanding of quantum mechanics and be able to answer a variety of numerical calculations.Ìý

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

Colloids and Electrode kinetics (5 Lectures + 6 Workshops/Quiz) Lyophobic colloids, preparation method, colloid stability, DVLO theory and double layer theory. Overpotential, Butler Volmer equation, Tafel equations and limiting current

Quantum mechanics (5 LecturesÌý+ 6 Workshops/Quiz):ÌýReview of the breakdown of classical mechanics. Understanding the Schrödinger equation, operators and wavefunctions. The Born interpretation. The uncertainty principle. Finding solutions for simple systems: Particle in a box, particle on a ring, simple harmonic oscillator. Understanding complexity: More than one particle in a box, introduction to ab-initio calculations, orbitals and the hydrogen atom.

Theories of Chemical Kinetics (5 Lectures + 6 Workshops/Quiz):ÌýCollision theory and Transition-state theory; Thermodynamic form of transition-state theory; Equilibria, statistical mechanics and partition functions; Bimolecular gas phase reactions and unimolecular decay and the Eyring equation.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

15 Lectures and 18 Workshops/Quiz sessions