Chemical Kinetics, Introduction to Spectroscopy and Group Theory

Duration

35h Th, 20h QA Sess.

Number of credits

Lecturer

Bernard Leyh

Language(s) of instruction

French language

Organisation and examination

Teaching in the second semester

Units courses prerequisite and corequisite

Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program

Learning unit contents

Introduction to spectroscopy and group theory
This introductory course focusses on two spectroscopic techniques which find extensive applications in inorganic, organic and analytical chemistry. The following topics will be taught:

• Brief reminder of basic concepts of quantum mechanics, taught in course CHIM0704-1 (co-requisite), in particular the quantum theory of angular momenntum
• One-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1D-NMR)
• Infrared vibrational spectroscopy: basic concepts and application to diatomic molecules
• Infrared vibrational spectroscopy of polyatomic molecules
• Introduction to group theory and application to the analysis of vibrational normal modes of polyatomic molecules

• Phenomenological rate laws
• Experimental techniques
• Complex multi-step reactions
• Heterogeneous catalysis

Learning outcomes of the learning unit

At the end of the course, the student is expected to be able

• to explain the basic physical principles which govern spectroscopic experiments (nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared spectroscopy);
• to infer, in cases of moderate difficulty, as much information as possible from experimental spectroscopic data;
• to explain the main concepts of group theory and to apply it to determine which vibrational normal modes are active in infrared spectroscopy;
• to explain and to apply the basic tools of physical chemistry to account for the dynamical processes leading to equilibrium.

Prerequisite knowledge and skills

Prerequisites:

• MATH0009-5 - Mathématiques générales
• PHYS0188-3 - Physique
• CHIM0199-5 - Chimie

• MATH0232-2 - Compléments de mathématiques générales
• PHYS0099-1 - Compléments de physique générale
• CRIS0203-1 - Eléments de cristallographie
• CHIM0703-1 - Thermodynamique et électrochimie
• CHIM0704-1 - Chimie théorique

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

There is no laboratory work foreseen for this course. Problem-solving classes are organized. Problems of both theoretical and numerical nature will be solved.

Mode of delivery (face-to-face ; distance-learning)

Two- and three-hour lectures during the second quadrimester focussed on the theory. Several problem-solving classes (alltogether 20 hours).

Recommended or required readings

Lecture notes. Extensive use of the blackboard is made during the lectures.

Assessment methods and criteria

Two exercise tests will be organized on kinetics and spectroscopy, respectively. Students who fail at either of these tests have the opportunity to participate in a written examination in May or June.
Written (theoretical and numerical problems) and oral (theory) examinations in May or June (1st session) and August or September (2nd session).
In order to obtain a global grade of at least 8/20, the student will have to reach a grade of at least 8/20 in each part of the oral examination: spectroscopy, group theory and kinetics.

Work placement(s)

Organizational remarks

See official agenda: http://www.facsc.ulg.ac.be/cms/c_5000/fr/accueil
 

Contacts

Bernard Leyh, Molecular Dynamics Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Building B6c, Office R77, Lab S48 - Phone : 04/3663425 - E-mail : Bernard.Leyh@ulg.ac.be
Exercise classes: Emeline Hanozin ehanozin@ulg.ac.be,  04/3663544
Valérie Schwanen vschwanen@ulg.ac.be(vschwanen@doct.ulg.ac.be)