Physical Chemistry I
Fall Semester - 2008  
Dr. Scott Reeve  LSW 538A Office 
972-3086/2521 LSW 543 Lab
E-mail: sreeve@astate.edu

 
Lecture  10:00-10:50 AM   MWF LSE 206
Lab:   2:00 - 5:00 PM W LSE 218, 505

Office hours: 9:15 AM MWF;     LSW 538A
Text:   Physical Chemistry: A Molecular Approach, Donald McQuarrie and John Simon

            Experiments in Physical Chemistry:  Shoemaker, Garland, Nibler

Course Description:  A systematic rigorous examination of the fundamental ideas in chemistry.  Utilizing constructs from the fields of mathematics and physics, we will develop a theoretical basis for the chemical principles covered in the undergraduate curriculum.

Chapter              Topic
 A,B,C,E,F,G,H,I   Math Review 
     1                        Introduction to Quantum Theory
     2,3                     The Schrodinger Equation and the Particle-in-a-Box Problem
     4                        Postulates of Quantum Mechanics

      Exam I -  Wednesday September 24

      5                      The Harmonic Oscillator
      6                      The Hydrogen Atom
      8                      Multi-electron Atoms

     Exam II -  Wednesday October 22

      7                     Approximation Methods
      9                     The Chemical Bond: Diatomics
     10                    Bonding in Polyatomic Molecules
 

    Exam III -  Wednesday November 19 

      12                   Group Theory
     

      Final Exam

Grade will be based on the following items:

1) Three (3) Hour Exams      15% each for a total of 45%.        45%
2) Comprehensive Final Exam                                                      40%

3) Laboratory Grade                                                                      15%

As a general guide, expect the grades to fall approximately along the following lines: 80% of the total
possible points or above will definitely be an A, 70%-80% will definitely be a B, 60%-70% definitely a C, etc..

Problem sets/homework:
Problem sets will be assigned on an approximately weekly basis.  Homework will not be collected and graded.  However, I strongly recommend you keeping up with the homework assignments as they will form the basis for the questions on the exam.

Instructions and Review Criteria for Lab Reports:

Policy on make-up work:
Policy on absences/make-up exams: There will be no make-up exams unless the absence is the result of an official ASU activity.  Missed exams will be handled on an individual basis.  However, if you cannot make a scheduled exam time, you must make alternative arrangements with the instructor at least one week prior to the scheduled exam.  In other words, you will not be allowed to make-up an exam after the scheduled exam date.

Students who require academic adjustments in the classroom due to a disability must first register with ASU Disability Services.  Following registration and within the first two weeks of class, please contact me to discuss appropriate academic accommodation.  Appropriate arrangements can be made to ensure equal access to this course.