Physical ChemistryLaajuus (4 ECTS)

Objective

After completion of this course the student understands the governing principles of thermodynamics and kinetics as well as the influence of process conditions on the equilibrium. In addition, he understands the fundamental concepts of electrochemistry. He also understands which factors may influence the rate of a chemical reaction and the extent of adsorption on a solid surface. The student understands the basics of enzymatic and heterogeneous catalysis. After completion of this course the student is able to assess whether a proposed reaction may proceeds spontaneously and if heat is released or absorbed in the reaction. He can also interpret the phase diagrams of pure substances, liquid-vapor diagrams and distillation diagrams. The student is able assess rate of a catalyzed reaction as well as adsorption equilibria by means of applying adsorption isotherms.

Content

Law’s of thermodynamics, enthalpy, entropy, Gibbs free energy. Thermochemistry and its applications, the spontaneity of reactions and phase transitions, the concept of chemical equilibrium; the phase diagrams of pure substances and binary mixtures, theory of distillation; electrochemistry: the spontaneity of electrochemical reactions, electromotive force, cell reaction; reaction kinetics: rate laws, the order of reaction, the dependence of reaction rated on temperature: adsorption isotherms. During the course practical laboratory exercises and demonstrations help to put the theory into practice.