Physical Chemistry I

Recommended Prerequisites

1st year of 1st cycle completed

Teaching Methods

Theoretical classes alternate with classes dedicated to resolution of problems; the coherence between subjects reinforces the overall learning. Lectures use audiovisual supports and specific bibliography. Classes dedicated to resolution of problems offer the opportunity to further explore more difficult concepts. Exercises solved in such class follow subjects of  lectures and stimulate the participation of students in the resolution of exercises. Exercises are provided with a reasonable time.

Learning Outcomes

This course is designed to contribute to a quantitative perspective of Chemistry and to present physical models in which Chemistry is based to explain the molecular phenomena. It also aims at motivating the students to search for an understanding and predictions of the properties of molecules on the basis of laws and fundamental principles.

 

Specific objectives:

1. Understand the nature of the chemical bond

2. Undestand the interaction between radiation and matter

3. Introduce the variable time in the transformation of matter

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. THE CHEMICAL BOND

Valence bond theory. Hybridization. Molecular orbital theory. Huckel approximation. Semiconductors. Nanoparticles. Metals

2. SYMMETRY

Symmetry elements. Molecular symmetry. Optical activity

3. SPECTROSCOPY

Rotational, vibrational and electronic spectroscopies. Laser. NMR spectroscopy

4. KINETICS

Rate laws. Reaction mechanisms. Arrhenius equation. Experimental methods to study reaction rates. Parallel, consecutive and reversible reactions. The rate determining step, the steady-state approximation and the pre-equilibrium approximation. The concept of transition state.

5.PHOTOCHEMISTRY

Jablonski diagram. Forbidden and allowed transitions. Radiative and non-radiative processes. Quantum yields. Lifetimes. Photochemical reactions     

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Exam: 100.0%

Bibliography

Physical Chemistry, Peter Atkins e Julio de Paula

Cinética Química, Sebastião Formosinho e Luis Arnaut

Química – Síntese e Estrutura, H. D. Burrows e M. M. Pereira (editores)