MChem Chemistry

This course unit detail provides the framework for delivery in 21/22 and may be subject to change due to any additional Covid-19 impact.  

On successful completion of the course students should be able to:

• explain the key steps in the derivation of the Boltzmann distribution;
• select and apply the tools of statistical thermodynamics to predict gaseous properties;
• apply the concept of potential energy surfaces to explain the basis of chemical reaction dynamics for small molecules;
• select and apply concepts in transition-state theory and the Eyring equation to predict and explain dynamical and kinetic behaviour in small molecules;
• explain the intensity of absorption of light and the probability of primary photophysical processes using simple quantum-mechanical arguments and Jablonski diagrams;
• rationalise simple photochemical processes and reactions in terms of electronic excited states;
• identify appropriate light sources for spectroscopic and photochemical measurements based on their characteristics and properties;
• explain the detailed nature of the relationship between free energy, equilibrium constant and reactivity in the context of organic chemistry;
• design experiments to measure and rationalise chemical reaction mechanisms;
• apply the principles of physical and physical-organic chemistry explain and rationalise the structure and properties of topical supramolecular materials.

• Problem-solving skills, numeracy and mathematical skills, analytical skills