Physical Chemistry II with Laboratory

Catalog description

Advanced synthetic methods may include photochemical, high temperature and inert-atmosphere reactions. Advanced analytical methods include Ultraviolet-Visible, Infrared and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy, Gas chromatography, Mass spectrometry and fast reaction (stopped-flow) kinetics. Computational chemistry will be employed to determine stability of reactants, intermediates and products as well as elucidate likely transition structures along the reaction pathway. Upon completion of this course, students will: 1) use spectroscopic instrumentation, inert atmosphere reaction apparatus and computational methods at an appropriate level of sophistication to analyze and answer questions of chemical interest, 2) effectively retrieve and critically evaluate articles from peer-reviewed technical journals, 3) write well-organized, concise laboratory reports in a variety of scientific styles; communicate oral and written details of reports to peers in a clear and concise manner, 4) demonstrate knowledge of modern chemical safety in each of the following areas: general safety awareness, correct disposal techniques, minimization of hazards in the laboratory, use of material safety data sheets (MSDS), 5) apply critical thinking skills and knowledge of fundamental chemistry to design and execute experiments which may require oxygen and/or moisture-free environments; analyze data and draw appropriate conclusions, 6) demonstrate sound ethical principles when conducting laboratory work, and 7) interact productively with peers and work effectively as part of a team pursuing chemical inquiries.