Physical Chemistry for Engineers

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This module introduces the background to our current understanding of atomic structure and describes the modern view of the atom in terms of quantum theory. The quantum theory is applied to the electronic structure of the elements and is used to demonstrate how the chemical and physical properties of elements are related to the arrangement of the electrons in atoms. The quantum approach is then applied to understand the ways in which atoms form bonds with each other in molecules and how different modes of bonding can affect the structure, shape and properties of molecules. Finally, the range of interactions that can occur between atoms and molecules are explored and the roles that such interactions play in determining the properties of various materials are examined.