Chemical and molecular thermodynamics, 7.5 Credits

Contents

In the course, fundamental thermodynamic concepts such as energy, enthalpy, entropy, free energy, and chemical potential are used to describe and quantitate chemical and physical change. The course specifically focuses on stability, phase transition, chemical equilibrium, and electrochemistry with emphasis on deviation from ideal behavior. The course also describes molecular mechanisms that underlie the chemical thermodynamics. Central concepts are illustrated with examples from both biology and chemistry.

Expected learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• Explain the concepts energy, enthalpy, entropy, free energy, and chemical potential
• Explain deviation from ideal systems by describing chemical interactions
• Describe the molecular mechanisms that underlie the observed thermodynamics, and explain the connection between micro- and macrostates
• Use the concepts of activity and chemical potential to describe phase stability, chemical mixing, and equilibrium
• Predict how chemical equilibria will be affected from a thermodynamic perspective
• Use the concept of chemical equilibrium to compare electrochemical cells
• Plan and perform laboratory exercises, and critically evalute the results in a written report  

Required Knowledge

Fundamentals of Chemistry, 15 ECTS, or the equivalent.

Form of instruction

The teaching consists of lectures, calculation exercises, and laboratory exercises. Participation in the laboratory exercises and safety instructions are mandatory.

Examination modes

Examination is conducted by a final written examination. The laboratory exercises are given pass/fail grades. The written exam and the full course is given a final grade of fail, pass, or pass with distinction. Those who pass the exam are not permitted to re-sit the exam for a higher grade. A student who has failed a course or part of a course twice is entitled to request appointment of another examiner, unless there are special reasons against it (HF Chap. 6 § 22). Requests for new examiner should be made to the Head of the Department of Chemistry.

Deviations from the course syllabus examination form can be made for a student who has a decision on pedagogical support due to disability. Individual adaptation of the examination form should be considered based on the student's needs. The examination form is adapted within the framework of the expected syllabus of the course syllabus. At the request of the student, the course responsible teacher, in consultation with the examiner, must promptly decide on the adapted examination form. The decision must then be communicated to the student.

Other regulations

In the event that the syllabus ceases to apply or undergoes major changes, students are guaranteed at least three examinations (including the regular examination opportunity) according to the regulations in the syllabus that the student was originally registered on for a period of a maximum of two years from the time that the previous syllabus ceased to apply or that the course ended.