Chemistry 4
CHE4277.01
Course Description
Summary
Part of the Chemistry 1-4 suite, this will examine the energetics of chemical changes. Focusing on the enthalpic and entropic contributions to free energy change, we will examine how energy or work can be extracted from chemical systems and how these systems behave as they tend toward equilibrium. Types of equilibria to be covered will include acid/base, solubility, phase change, metal-ligand interactions and oxidation/reduction. The energetics of electron transfer reactions will be examined along with the practical considerations of making use of such reactions to power electric devices. Note that, despite the number "4" in the course tile, the only prerequisite is Chemistry 1.
Learning Outcomes
- Develop a working vocabulary and a quantitative foundation in chemical and physical energetics, including the concepts of free energy, enthalpy and entropy;
- To develop the ability to quantitatively describe systems at equilibrium or under nonequilibrium conditions and to be able to predict the direction of change based using equilibrium constants and other relevant information;
- Learn how to employ a systematic approach toward the quantitative examination of all chemical equilbria;
- Understand the conceptual aspects of acid-base equilibrium and how those concepts apply to all chemical systems that tend to equilibrium;
- Develop an understanding of the qualitative and quantitative aspects of oxidation/reduction chemistry and how the movement of electrons in chemical processes can be harnessed to do physical work