Chemistry 251

Course Description:

This course is an introduction to the quantum theory of matter, with particular applications to problems of chemical interest. Our discussion of the subject of quantum chemistry will be based on the Schrödinger equation, the wave equation for matter waves. We will discuss the solutions to the Schrödinger equation for a number of important model systems, including piecewise constant potentials, the simple harmonic oscillator, the rigid rotor, and the Coulomb potential. We will apply these results to chemical bonding and atomic and molecular structure. Chemistry 251 is for undergraduates. Chemistry 441 is for graduate students who have not had previous coursework in quantum chemistry. Chemistry 441 students will have additional homework assignments.

Course Prequisites:

Physics: Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism. Math: Calculus, through differential equations strongly recommended.

Lecture:

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 11:00 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. Dewey 2-162. The first lecture will be held on Wednesday, September 3. Regular class attendance is expected of all students.

Textbook:

Donald A. McQuarrie, Quantum Chemistry, Second Edition, University Science Books, 2008. ISBN 978-1-891389-50-4

Blackboard:

Enrolled students can access course information via Blackboard.

Homework:

These assignments will be made weekly. Click the Homework button on Blackboard for details.

Workshops:

Workshop sections will meet once a week. The first workshops will meet the week of September 15. Click the Workshops button on Blackboard for details.

Exams:

There will be three hour exams and a final exam for this course.

  Hour exam 1: Friday, October 3, 2008.

  Hour exam 2: Friday, November 7, 2008.

  Hour exam 3: Friday, December 5, 2008.

  Final exam: Friday, December 19, 2008, 7:15 p.m. - 10:15 p.m.

Instructor:

Office Hours
Monday, 2:00-3:30 p.m. and
Thursday, 2:00-3:30 p.m.
in Hutchison B-19.

I will be happy to arrange meeting times other than these by appointment.