Principles of Physical Chemistry (403-0-01)

Instructors

Songi Han

Meeting Info

Technological Institute MG28: Tues, Thurs 8:00AM - 9:20AM

Overview of class

The focus of this graduate level class will be on "WHAT" information is acquired using modern measurement tools in Chemistry, less on the "HOW" the measurements work, and the importance of effective visualization with the help of modern software for the purpose of communication. The students will use data provided to them or their own research data for assignments or the final project. The starting point is "what question are you after?" and "what chemical system?", and next, what measurement tools they wish to use or learn about.

We will cover a variety of techniques and spectroscopic methods, including X-ray Crystallography, Micro Electron Diffraction, Hyperfine EPR of Paramagnetic Solids, Single Particle Imaging by Cryo-EM, Solution and Solid-State NMR of Structure and Dynamics, Structure of Disordered Systems by Dipolar EPR, Quantum Sensing, as well as Computational Approaches and AI-Based Tools. This course will place a strong emphasis on learning visualization software for analyzing crystals, polymers, and proteins, along with Scientific Illustration Software.

The learning outcome goals are:

1. Increase knowledge about state of the art measurement tools available to enhance our understanding of the chemical system of study.
2. Gain confidence and knowledge to initiate useful state of the art measurements, including how to get help and who to ask.
3. Enhance skills to analyze and interpret complex data to gain a clearer "picture" of their chemical system.
4. Gain skills to present complex data in visually compelling ways.
5. Enhance awareness and skills to generate physically intuitive visuals to accompany their data for effective communication, including methods to generate compelling, but accurate, graphical abstract of their work.

Class Materials (Required)

None

Class Materials (Suggested)

Download and become familiar with Mercuri, ChimeraX, Easyspin, Blenders, VESTA, ChemDraw, Spindrops