Foundations of Physical Chemistry

Quantum and statistical thermodynamics: obtaining quantum mechanical energy levels and connecting them to thermodynamic properties using statistical mechanics. Emphasis will be on quantum mechanics of ideal systems (particle in a box, particle on a ring, harmonic oscillator, rigid rotor, and hydrogen atom) and their connection to and uses in thermodynamics (laws of thermodynamics, properties of gases and thermal motion, and chemical equilibria). Homeworks and discussion sections will employ the Python programming language for hands-on experience with simulating chemical systems. Prerequisites: CHEM 31B or CHEM 31M; PHYS 41; CS106A; and MATH 51, MATH 61CM, MATH 61DM or CME 100.