Quantum Chemistry

Undergraduate

Quantum chemistry is the application of quantum mechanics to the study of chemical systems. It is foundational to computational chemistry – the use of computers to model chemical systems – which has established itself as an important tool for studying chemical systems ranging from an atom to proteins, and in the design of new therapeutic drugs and materials. In this course we examine foundational principles and concepts of quantum chemistry relevant to understanding systems ranging from a single one-electron atom to multi-electron molecules. The study of multi-electron systems requires the use of approaches and approximations (e.g., Variational, Perturbation, or Molecular Orbital theory) that also lie at the core of the various possible computational methods. We will also gain experience in using computational chemistry to determine or predict the properties and behaviours of chemical systems. (Prerequisite: CHEM-2410.) (3 lecture, 3 laboratory hours per week.)