Lecture note on Physical Chemistry and Theoretical Chemistry
Lecture note on Physical Chemistry and Theoretical Chemistry
Lecture note on Physical Chemistry and Theoretical Chemistry
This
lecture note explains fundamental concepts in quantum mechanics and
theoretical chemistry, particularly focusing on the electronic structure of
atoms and molecules. The document explores main topics such as many-electron
systems, quantum mechanical models, and their implications in understanding
molecular behavior. It provides a theoretical framework essential for
computational chemistry, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical and
experimental chemistry. Topics discussed include the nature of electronic
structure, atomic and molecular orbitals, and quantum mechanics' role in
chemical reactions, forming the foundation of computational chemistry
approaches.
Author(s): Peter G.Szalay, Eotvos Lorand University
This guide is meant to
provide easy access for chemistry students to develop necessary mathematical
skills in a concise, at-hand fashion. It relates key mathematical concepts that
commonly are applied in chemistry, in algebra, calculus, and statistical
methods. The book presents mathematics as fundamental to solving problems in
chemistry and for grasping more sophisticated ideas in physical chemistry,
quantum mechanics, and molecular simulations. It is focused on enhancing the
student's ability to apply mathematical tools in both theoretical and
experimental contexts in chemistry.
This lecture note highlights molecular mechanics as a
computational chemistry approach to the modeling of molecular systems. The
fundamental concepts included are: force fields, stretching, bending, and
torsional energies. It explains the different components of energy, including
van der Waals interactions and electrostatic forces, and goes further to
describe factors through which they were used in predicting molecular behavior.
Sherrill has also covered challenges in fitting atomic charges and how to
parameterize force fields. Consequently, there is an in-depth overview of the
computational methods used for simulating molecular structures and reactions.