CHEM 320 - Introduction to Physical Chemistry

3 Credits
This course will introduce concepts of physical chemistry for undergraduates pursuing chemistry or other STEM disciplines. The focus will be on the following key topics: thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantum mechanics. These topics help determine whether reactions can proceed, how fast they occur, and how these reactions take place at the sub-atomic scale.

Grade Note(s): All CHEM prefixed courses required for the BS Biological Sciences degree program require a C or better grade for successful completion. All CHEM prefixed courses taken as requirements in the Nursing programs require a C or better grade for successful completion.
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 161, CHEM 161L, and MATH 215
Course Learning Outcomes:
1. Analyze the quantitative relationship of thermodynamic properties associated with both phase transitions and chemical reactions.
2. Evaluate different mechanisms proposed for quantum mechanical phenomena.
3. Calculate changes in reaction kinetics and dynamics.
4. Deduce the appropriate kinetic model for a broad range of chemical reactions.
5. Describe spontaneous processes using thermodynamic equations.