Physical Chemistry II

In the first part of the cource “Physical Chemistry II” we are introduced to the field of Chemical Kinetics. In particular, we define the rate of a reaction and the parameters on which it depends. We continue with introducing the concept of reaction mechanism and how this can be determined by measuring the rate. Τhe first part of the cource “Physical Chemistry II” is an Introductory course in Quantum Mechanics.

Objectives

The main objective of the second part of the course is to familiarize students with basic concepts of quantum mechanics, namely: 1) the binary nature of electromagnetic radiation and matter, 2) the emergence, understanding and solving of the Scrhödinger equation, 3) familiarization with the concepts of bounded and free particles, 4) understanding of the quantum harmonic oscillator, and 5) solving of the atomic hydrogen problem and the emergence of angular momentum and spin. After successful completion of this course the student is expected to know and understand the main reasons for the emergence of the quantum mechanical treatment of electromagnetic radiation and matter, the approach of classical problems through quantum mechanics, how to handle and solve problems of bound and free particles, and the formalistic approach for the solution of the hydrogen atom.

Prerequisites

2nd part • Very good knowledge of calculus • Introductory linear algebra is greatly recommended • ΧΗΥ-104 and ΧΗΥ-202

Syllabus

The wave-particle duality of light. The Schrödinger equation and the statistical interpretation of the wavefunction. The uncertainty principle. Potential wells I: Discrete spectrum. Potential wells II: Continuum spectrum. Harmonic oscillator. Hydrogen atom I: Spherically symmetric solutions. Hydrogen atom II: Solutions with angular dependence. The atom in a magnetic field and the emergence of spin.