Physical Chemistry of Matter and Fundamentals of Spectroscopy
A.Y. 2023/2024
Learning objectives
We aim at introducing the student to the basic concepts of Quantum Mechanics and therefore to be able to illustrate:
- The main methods for studying the electronic structure of atoms and molecules (MO and VB methods)
- The fundamental concepts underlying electron, rotational and vibrational spectroscopy
- The main methods for studying the electronic structure of atoms and molecules (MO and VB methods)
- The fundamental concepts underlying electron, rotational and vibrational spectroscopy
Expected learning outcomes
The student will have to acquire a good understanding of Quantum Mechanics principles and of the Schroedinger equation, including its applications to simple systems. He will have to know the fundamentals of the theories of molecular orbitals and valence bonds. He will have to understand the theoretical basis of spectroscopy.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course can be attended as a single course.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
The failures of classical physics. The principles of quantum mechanics. Quantum mechanical description of simple systems: free particle, particle in a box (one and two dimensions), rotational motions (two and three dimensions). The hydrogen atom and the structures of many electron atoms. The electronic molecular description of molecules: the Molecular Orbital and the Valence Bond approaches. An introduction to spectroscopy: the time dependent Schrödinger equation. Rotational spectroscopy of biatomic molecules. Vibrational and vibro-rotational spectroscopy of biatomic molecules. The vibrations of polyatomic molecules.
Prerequisites for admission
Knowledge of mathematics and general chemistry
Teaching methods
Frontal lessons with slide projection
Teaching Resources
P.W. Atkins, Physical Chemistry, Oxford University Press
G.C.Ghirardi, Un'occhiata alle carte di Dio. Il Saggiatore
G.C.Ghirardi, Un'occhiata alle carte di Dio. Il Saggiatore
Assessment methods and Criteria
The exam consists of a written test with open questions on the fundamental concepts of the course. The clarity of the presentation, the correct use of technical terms and the logical rigor in the presentation will be evaluated
Educational website(s)
Professor(s)