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Patrick J O'Malley, D.Sc,
Michael W. Anderson, FRSC,
and
Jonathan Agger, MRSC
Chemical reactions underpin the production of pretty much everything in our modern world. But, what is the driving force behind reactions? Why do some reactions occur over geological time scales whilst others are so fast that we need femtosecond-pulsed lasers to study them? Ultimately, what is going on at the atomic level? Discover the answers to such fundamental questions and more on this course in introductory physical chemistry.
Read more
Chemical reactions underpin the production of pretty much everything in our modern world. But, what is the driving force behind reactions? Why do some reactions occur over geological time scales whilst others are so fast that we need femtosecond-pulsed lasers to study them? Ultimately, what is going on at the atomic level? Discover the answers to such fundamental questions and more on this course in introductory physical chemistry.
Read more
Chemical reactions underpin the production of pretty much everything in our modern world. But, what is the driving force behind reactions? Why do some reactions occur over geological time scales whilst others are so fast that we need femtosecond-pulsed lasers to study them? Ultimately, what is going on at the atomic level? Discover the answers to such fundamental questions and more on this course in introductory physical chemistry.
The course covers the key concepts of three of the principal topics in first-year undergraduate physical chemistry: thermodynamics, kinetics and quantum mechanics. These three topics cover whether or not reactions occur, how fast they go and what is actually going on at the sub-atomic scale.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Thermodynamics I
This module explores thermodynamic definitions, the zeroth law of thermodynamics and temperature, the first law of thermodynamics and enthalpy, reversible expansion, and heat capacity.
Read more
Syllabus
Thermodynamics I
This module explores thermodynamic definitions, the zeroth law of thermodynamics and temperature, the first law of thermodynamics and enthalpy, reversible expansion, and heat capacity.
Read more
Traffic lights
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Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Covers key physical chemistry concepts relevant in various industries
Taught by esteemed physical chemistry experts
Provides virtual labs for hands-on thermodynamics and kinetics exploration
Includes interactive particle-in-a-box and hydrogen emission spectroscopy experiments
Covers both qualitative and quantitative aspects of quantum chemistry
Requires prior knowledge in physical chemistry
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Reviews summary
Foundational physical chemistry: thermo, kinetics, quantum
According to learners, this course provides a solid introduction to the core areas of physical chemistry: thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantum mechanics. Many found the initial modules, particularly thermodynamics, to be clearly explained and accessible, providing a strong base. However, a significant portion of students found the later sections, especially quantum mechanics, to be challenging or feel rushed. While the virtual labs were mentioned as helpful supplemental activities, they were generally viewed as basic. Overall, the course is seen as a valuable resource, particularly as a supplement to other studies or for those with a decent prior math/physics background, though some found the pace demanding for a true beginner.
Labs are simple and reinforce concepts.
"Labs were okay, helped visualize concepts."
"The virtual labs were a nice addition, though not a replacement for hands-on."
"The virtual labs are basic but reinforce ideas."
"Virtual lab activities were useful for applying principles, but quite simple."
Lectures on thermodynamics are particularly clear.
"The thermodynamics modules were very clear."
"Prof explains everything so well, especially in the earlier sections."
"Made seemingly impossible concepts understandable, starting with Thermo."
"The explanation of the first and second laws of thermodynamics was excellent."
Provides a good foundation in key PChem areas.
"Excellent introduction to PChem. The thermodynamics modules were very clear."
"Solid foundation. Covers the main pillars of physical chemistry."
"Provides a strong base for understanding thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantum mechanics."
"Covers the key concepts of three of the principal topics in first-year undergraduate physical chemistry."
Moves quickly, especially for beginners.
"Kinetics was a bit fast-paced but manageable."
"Good pace for review, maybe fast for a true beginner."
"Lectures sometimes jump around or move too quickly through derivations."
"Felt a bit rushed trying to absorb the later topics."
Assumes a strong math and physics background.
"Assumes more math background than stated."
"Need strong math and physics background to keep up."
"This course is not for someone without some calculus and physics knowledge."
"Found it difficult without having recently studied calculus and physics."
Quantum mechanics and kinetics sections are difficult.
"Quantum Mechanics is tough but explained as well as it could be at this level."
"Okay course. Thermodynamics part was good, but Kinetics and especially Quantum Chemistry were difficult to follow."
"Very challenging. Quantum mechanics section was completely over my head."
"Felt lost often in the later modules, particularly Quantum Chemistry."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Introduction to Physical Chemistry with these
activities:
Review Atkins' Physical Chemistry
Show steps
Help refresh your knowledge on fundamental concepts of Physical Chemistry by reading through Atkins' Physical Chemistry.
View
ATKINS PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY 12E SE P
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read through the chapters and make notes on key concepts.
-
Review the provided examples to understand their applications in real-world scenarios.
-
Complete the practice questions at the end of each chapter to test your understanding.
Explore video tutorials on Chemical Kinetics
Show steps
Supplement your learning by watching video tutorials that provide clear explanations and visualizations of Chemical Kinetics concepts.
Browse courses on
Chemical Kinetics
Show steps
-
Search for reputable online platforms or channels offering video tutorials on Chemical Kinetics.
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key concepts and equations.
-
Pause the videos to reflect on the explanations and ask yourself questions to enhance your understanding.
Create a concept map
Show steps
Develop a holistic understanding of the course content and enhance your critical thinking skills by creating a concept map.
Browse courses on
Chemical Reactions
Show steps
-
Identify and list down the key concepts and terms covered in each module.
-
Establish the relationship between the concepts using lines and arrows.
-
Add examples and explanations to reinforce your understanding.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Host or join a study group
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Engage with peers to exchange knowledge, clarify concepts, and support each other's learning throughout the course.
Show steps
-
Reach out to classmates or form a group with friends.
-
Establish regular meeting times and choose a platform for communication.
-
Take turns presenting concepts, solving problems, and leading discussions.
-
Actively listen to others' perspectives and ask questions to deepen your understanding.
Solve Thermodynamics practice problems
Show steps
Regular practice will significantly improve your problem-solving skills and equip you to tackle exam questions confidently.
Browse courses on
Thermodynamics
Show steps
-
Gather practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or past papers.
-
Solve the problems step-by-step, ensuring you understand the underlying principles.
-
Check your answers and identify areas where you need further improvement.
Work through Quantum Chemistry exercises
Show steps
Engage in Quantum Chemistry exercises to solidify your grasp of wavefunctions, energy levels, and other fundamental concepts.
Browse courses on
Quantum Chemistry
Show steps
-
Obtain practice exercises from textbooks or online sources.
-
Attempt to solve the exercises самостоятельно, referring to your notes and textbooks for support.
-
Verify your solutions and seek clarification on any concepts you struggle with.
Mentor a junior student
Show steps
Share your knowledge and skills by mentoring a junior student, reinforcing your own understanding while guiding the next generation of learners.
Show steps
-
Volunteer to be a mentor through university programs or reach out to younger students in your field.
-
Establish regular meetings and provide guidance on coursework, study techniques, and career development.
-
Create a supportive and encouraging environment that fosters their growth and confidence.
Assist as a teaching assistant
Show steps
Gain practical teaching experience by assisting in lower-level chemistry classes, reinforcing your own understanding of fundamental concepts.
Show steps
-
Inquire with your university or local schools about volunteer teaching opportunities.
-
Prepare lesson plans and assist the instructor in delivering the material.
-
Provide guidance and support to students, answering their questions and fostering their learning.
Review Atkins' Physical Chemistry
Show steps
Help refresh your knowledge on fundamental concepts of Physical Chemistry by reading through Atkins' Physical Chemistry.
View
ATKINS PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY 12E SE P
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read through the chapters and make notes on key concepts.
- Review the provided examples to understand their applications in real-world scenarios.
- Complete the practice questions at the end of each chapter to test your understanding.
Explore video tutorials on Chemical Kinetics
Show steps
Supplement your learning by watching video tutorials that provide clear explanations and visualizations of Chemical Kinetics concepts.
Browse courses on
Chemical Kinetics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for reputable online platforms or channels offering video tutorials on Chemical Kinetics.
- Watch the tutorials and take notes on the key concepts and equations.
- Pause the videos to reflect on the explanations and ask yourself questions to enhance your understanding.
Create a concept map
Show steps
Develop a holistic understanding of the course content and enhance your critical thinking skills by creating a concept map.
Browse courses on
Chemical Reactions
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and list down the key concepts and terms covered in each module.
- Establish the relationship between the concepts using lines and arrows.
- Add examples and explanations to reinforce your understanding.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Host or join a study group
Show steps
Engage with peers to exchange knowledge, clarify concepts, and support each other's learning throughout the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to classmates or form a group with friends.
- Establish regular meeting times and choose a platform for communication.
- Take turns presenting concepts, solving problems, and leading discussions.
- Actively listen to others' perspectives and ask questions to deepen your understanding.
Solve Thermodynamics practice problems
Show steps
Regular practice will significantly improve your problem-solving skills and equip you to tackle exam questions confidently.
Browse courses on
Thermodynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or past papers.
- Solve the problems step-by-step, ensuring you understand the underlying principles.
- Check your answers and identify areas where you need further improvement.
Work through Quantum Chemistry exercises
Show steps
Engage in Quantum Chemistry exercises to solidify your grasp of wavefunctions, energy levels, and other fundamental concepts.
Browse courses on
Quantum Chemistry
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain practice exercises from textbooks or online sources.
- Attempt to solve the exercises самостоятельно, referring to your notes and textbooks for support.
- Verify your solutions and seek clarification on any concepts you struggle with.
Mentor a junior student
Show steps
Share your knowledge and skills by mentoring a junior student, reinforcing your own understanding while guiding the next generation of learners.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Volunteer to be a mentor through university programs or reach out to younger students in your field.
- Establish regular meetings and provide guidance on coursework, study techniques, and career development.
- Create a supportive and encouraging environment that fosters their growth and confidence.
Assist as a teaching assistant
Show steps
Gain practical teaching experience by assisting in lower-level chemistry classes, reinforcing your own understanding of fundamental concepts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Inquire with your university or local schools about volunteer teaching opportunities.
- Prepare lesson plans and assist the instructor in delivering the material.
- Provide guidance and support to students, answering their questions and fostering their learning.
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Physical Chemistry will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
A Research Scientist is responsible for conducting scientific research and developing new theories and technologies. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful in providing you with the foundational knowledge necessary to succeed in this role. The course covers the key concepts of thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantum mechanics, which are all essential for understanding the behavior of matter and energy.
Analytical Chemist
Analytical Chemist
Analytical Chemists study the composition and structure of materials and develop analytical methods to solve problems in various fields. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in understanding the fundamental principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the analysis of materials.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers design and operate chemical plants and processes, ensuring that they are efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in developing a strong foundation in the principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the design and operation of chemical processes.
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists research and develop new materials, such as metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in understanding the fundamental principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the development of new materials.
Pharmaceutical Chemist
Pharmaceutical Chemist
Pharmaceutical Chemists research, develop, and test new drugs and medicines. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in understanding the fundamental principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the development of new drugs and medicines.
Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientists analyze evidence from crime scenes to help solve crimes. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in understanding the fundamental principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the analysis of evidence.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and develop solutions to environmental problems. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in understanding the fundamental principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the study of the environment.
Biochemist
Biochemist
Biochemists study the chemical processes that occur in living organisms. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in understanding the fundamental principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the study of living organisms.
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
Science Teachers teach science at the elementary, secondary, or post-secondary level. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in developing a strong foundation in the principles of chemistry and how they can be taught to students.
Science Writer
Science Writer
Science Writers communicate complex scientific information to the public. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in developing a strong foundation in the principles of chemistry and how they can be communicated to the public.
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorneys help clients obtain patents for their inventions. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in understanding the fundamental principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the development of new inventions.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create technical documentation, such as user manuals, technical reports, and white papers. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in developing a strong foundation in the principles of chemistry and how they can be communicated to a technical audience.
Quality Assurance Manager
Quality Assurance Manager
Quality Assurance Managers ensure that products and services meet quality standards. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in understanding the fundamental principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the development of quality control processes.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and marketing of products. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in understanding the fundamental principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the development of new products.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts analyze business processes and develop solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. This course in introductory physical chemistry may be useful for you in developing a strong foundation in the principles of chemistry and how they can be applied to the analysis of business processes.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nf4qdk/introduction
Reading list
We've selected 33 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Introduction to Physical Chemistry.
Save
Classic textbook on chemical thermodynamics. It provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, from the basics to advanced topics. It valuable reference for students and researchers in chemistry, physics, and engineering.
Leading textbook on physical chemistry. It provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, from the basics to advanced topics. It valuable reference for students and researchers in chemistry, physics, and engineering.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of molecular quantum mechanics, covering topics such as the Schrödinger equation, the hydrogen atom, and molecular spectroscopy.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of quantum chemistry and spectroscopy, covering topics such as the Schrödinger equation, the hydrogen atom, and molecular spectroscopy.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of quantum chemistry, covering topics such as the Schrödinger equation, the hydrogen atom, and molecular spectroscopy.
This textbook provides a modern and interdisciplinary approach to thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and kinetics. It is well-suited for students with a strong background in mathematics and physics.
This textbook provides a comprehensive and rigorous introduction to statistical mechanics. It is suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate students, as well as researchers in the field.
Save
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to thermodynamics, statistical thermodynamics, and kinetics. It good choice for students who are new to these topics or who want to review them.
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to physical chemistry for students in the life sciences. It covers topics such as thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantum mechanics, with a focus on their applications to biological systems.
Textbook on quantum mechanics. It provides a clear and concise overview of the subject, with a focus on the basics. It valuable reference for students and researchers in physics and chemistry.
Save
Textbook on thermodynamics for engineering students. It provides a clear and concise overview of the subject, with a focus on practical applications. It valuable reference for students and engineers in all fields.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of chemical kinetics, covering topics such as the rates of reactions, the mechanisms of reactions, and the properties of transition states.
This textbook provides a clear and accessible introduction to quantum mechanics for chemists. It is suitable for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as researchers in the field.
This textbook provides a practical and applied approach to chemical kinetics and process dynamics. It is suitable for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as researchers in the field.
Classic textbook on thermodynamics that provides a rigorous and comprehensive treatment of the subject.
Provides a detailed treatment of chemical kinetics and reaction mechanisms, with a particular focus on the application of these concepts to real-world problems.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of chemical kinetics and reaction dynamics, covering topics such as the rates of reactions, the mechanisms of reactions, and the properties of transition states.
Provides a comprehensive overview of inorganic chemistry, including coverage of thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantum mechanics. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the chemistry of inorganic compounds.
Save
Textbook on quantum mechanics for chemists. It provides a clear and concise overview of the subject, with a focus on the applications of quantum mechanics to chemistry. It valuable reference for students and researchers in chemistry.
This textbook focuses on the application of physical chemistry to biological systems. It provides a clear and accessible introduction to the fundamental principles of physical chemistry in a biological context.
Save
Widely respected textbook for introductory organic chemistry. It covers the key concepts of organic chemistry in a clear and accessible way, with a focus on applications to real-world problems.
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Popular textbook for introductory biochemistry. It covers the key concepts of biochemistry in a clear and accessible way, with a focus on applications to human health.
Classic textbook on molecular biology. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, with a focus on the molecular basis of cell function.
Textbook on thermodynamics. It provides a modern and up-to-date overview of the subject, with a focus on the latest developments. It valuable reference for students and researchers in chemistry, physics, and engineering.
Textbook on chemical kinetics. It provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, with a focus on the latest developments. It valuable reference for students and researchers in chemistry, physics, and engineering.
Popular textbook for introductory physics. It covers the key concepts of physics in a clear and accessible way, with a focus on applications to real-world problems.
Popular textbook for introductory linear algebra. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, with a focus on applications to real-world problems.
Popular textbook for introductory calculus. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, with a focus on applications to real-world problems.
Textbook on chemical kinetics and reaction dynamics. It provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, with a focus on the latest developments. It valuable reference for students and researchers in chemistry, physics, and engineering.
Textbook on thermodynamics for natural systems. It provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, with a focus on the applications of thermodynamics to geochemistry and environmental science. It valuable reference for students and researchers in these fields.
Provides a comprehensive overview of statistical mechanics, with a focus on modern applications to areas such as soft matter and biological systems.
Provides a gentle introduction to quantum field theory, with a focus on making the subject accessible to a wider audience.
Provides a rigorous and comprehensive treatment of quantum mechanics, with a focus on modern applications to areas such as particle physics and quantum computing.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nf4qdk/introduction
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Rating
4.7
Effort
18 hours to complete
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Manchester
Instructors
Patrick J O'Malley, D.Sc
Michael W. Anderson, FRSC
Jonathan Agger, MRSC
Language
English
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