Ch 1 ab
General Chemistry
6 units a (3-0-3) first term; b 9 units (4-0-5) second term
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first, second terms
Lectures and recitations dealing with the principles of chemistry. First term: Chemical bonding-electronic structure of atoms, periodic properties, ionic substances, covalent bonding, Lewis representations of molecules and ions, shapes of molecules, Lewis acids and bases, Bronsted acids and bases, hybridization and resonance, bonding in solids. Second term: Chemical dynamics-spectroscopy, thermodynamics, kinetics, chemical equilibria, electrochemistry, and introduction to organic chemistry. Graded pass/fail.
Instructors:
Lewis (a), Chan, Robb (b)
Ch 3 a
Fundamental Techniques of Experimental Chemistry
6 units (1-3-2)
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first, second, third terms
Introduces the basic principles and techniques of synthesis and analysis and develops the laboratory skills and precision that are fundamental to experimental chemistry. Freshmen who have gained advanced placement into Ch 41 or Ch 21, or who are enrolled in Ch 10, are encouraged to take Ch 3 a in the fall term, limited enrollment. Students entering in the academic year 2020 and before must take Ch 3 in their first nine terms of residence in order to be graded pass/fail. Freshmen entering in the academic year 2021 and thereafter must take Ch 3 in their first six terms of residence in order to be graded pass/fail. Ch 3 a and Ch 3 x both satisfy the institute's requirement for a Freshman Chemistry Laboratory.
Instructor:
Mendez
Ch 3 x
Experimental Methods in Solar Energy Conversion
6 units (1-3-2)
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first, second, third terms
Introduces concepts and laboratory methods in chemistry and materials science centered on the theme of solar energy conversion and storage. Students will perform experiments involving optical spectroscopy, electrochemistry, laser spectroscopy, photochemistry, and photoelectrochemistry, culminating in the construction and testing of dye-sensitized solar cells. Students entering in the academic year 2020 and before must take Ch 3 in their first nine terms of residence in order to be graded pass/fail. Freshmen entering in the academic year 2021 and thereafter must take Ch 3 in their first six terms of residence in order to be graded pass/fail. Ch 3 a and Ch 3 x both satisfy the institute's requirement for a Freshman Chemistry Laboratory.
Instructor:
Mendez
Ch 4 ab
Synthesis and Analysis of Organic and Inorganic Compounds
9 units (1-6-2)
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first, second, third terms
Prerequisites: Ch 1 (or the equivalent) and Ch 3 a or Ch 3 x. Ch 4 a is a prerequisite for Ch 4 b. Previous or concurrent enrollment in Ch 41 is strongly recommended.
Introduction to methods of synthesis, separation, purification, and characterization used routinely in chemical research laboratories. Ch 4 a focuses on the synthesis and analysis of organic molecules; Ch 4 b focuses on the synthesis and analysis of inorganic and organometallic molecules. Ch 4 a, first and second terms; Ch 4 b, second and third terms.
Instructor:
Mendez
Ch 5 ab
Advanced Techniques of Synthesis and Analysis
a 12 units (1-9-2), second term; b 12 units (1-9-2), first term
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first, second terms
Prerequisites: Ch 4 ab. Ch 102 strongly recommended for Ch 5 b.
Modern synthetic chemistry. Specific experiments may change from year to year. Experiments illustrating the multistep syntheses of natural products (Ch 5 a), coordination complexes, and organometallic complexes (Ch 5 b) will be included. Methodology will include advanced techniques of synthesis and instrumental characterization. Terms may be taken independently.
Instructors:
Grubbs (a), Agapie (b)
Ch 6 ab
Physical and Biophysical Chemistry Laboratory
9 units (1-5-3)
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second, third terms
Prerequisites: Ch 1, Ch 4 a, and Ch 21 or equivalents (may be taken concurrently).
Introduction to modern physical methods in chemistry and biology. Techniques include laser spectroscopy, microwave spectroscopy, electron spin resonance, nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometry, FT-IR, fluorescence, scanning probe microscopies, and UHV surface methods. The two terms can be taken in any order. Part b not offered 2021-2022.
Instructor:
Beauchamp
Ch 7
Advanced Experimental Methods in Bioorganic Chemistry
9 units (1-6-2)
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third term
Prerequisites: Ch 41 abc, Ch/Bi 110, and Ch 4 ab.
Prerequisites may be waived with instructor's permission. Preference will be given to students who have taken Ch 5 a or Bi 10. This advanced laboratory course will provide experience in powerful contemporary methods used in chemical biology, including polypeptide synthesis and the selective labeling and imaging of glycoproteins in cells. Experiments will address amino acid protecting group strategies, biopolymer assembly and isolation, and product characterization. A strong emphasis will be placed on understanding the chemical basis underlying the successful utilization of these procedures. In addition, experiments to demonstrate the application of commercially available enzymes for useful synthetic organic transformations will be illustrated. Students need only attend two lab sections per week.
Instructor:
Hsieh-Wilson
Ch 8
Procedures of Synthetic Chemistry for Premedical Students
9 units (1-6-2)
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first term
Prerequisites: Ch 1 ab and Ch 3 a or Ch 3 x. Previous or concurrent enrollment in Ch 41 is strongly recommended.
Open to non-pre-medical students, as space allows. Introduction to methods of extraction, synthesis, separation and purification, and spectroscopic characterization of Aspirin, Tylenol, and medical test strips.
Instructor:
Mendez
Ch/ChE 9
Chemical Synthesis and Characterization for Chemical Engineering
9 units (1-6-2)
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third term
Prerequisites: Ch 1 ab and Ch 3 a or Ch 3 x. Previous or concurrent enrollment in Ch 41 is strongly recommended.
Instruction in synthesis, separation, purification, and physical and spectroscopic characterization procedures of model organic and organometallic compounds. Specific emphasis will be focused on following the scientific method in the study of model organic and inorganic materials. Enrollment priority given to chemical engineering majors.
Instructor:
Mendez
Ch 10 abc
Frontiers in Chemistry
1 unit (1-0-0) first, second terms; 6 units (1-4-1) third term.
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first, second, third terms
Prerequisites: Open for credit to freshmen and sophomores. Ch 10 c prerequisites are Ch 10 ab, Ch 3 a or Ch 3 x, and either Ch 1 ab, Ch 41 ab, or Ch 21 ab, and instructor’s permission.
Ch 10 ab is a weekly seminar by a member of the chemistry department on a topic of current research; the topic will be presented at an informal, introductory level. Ch 10 c is a research-oriented laboratory course, which will be supervised by a chemistry faculty member. Weekly class meetings will provide a forum for participants to discuss their research projects. Graded pass/fail.
Instructor:
Hoelz
Ch 14
Chemical Equilibrium and Analysis
9 units (3-0-6)
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second term
Develops the basic principles of chemical equilibrium in aqueous solutions, emphasizing acid-base chemistry, complex ion formation, chelation, solubility, oxidation-reduction reactions, and partitioning equilibria for separations.
Instructor:
Rees
Ch 15
Chemical Equilibrium and Analysis Laboratory
10 units (0-6-4)
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third term
Prerequisites: Ch 1 ab, Ch 3 a or Ch 3 x, Ch 14, or instructor's permission.
Laboratory experiments are used to illustrate modern instrumental techniques that are currently employed in industrial and academic research. Emphasis is on determinations of chemical composition, measurement of equilibrium constants, evaluation of rates of chemical reactions, and trace-metal analysis.
Instructor:
Dalleska
Ch 21 abc
Physical Chemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
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first, second, third terms
Prerequisites: Ch 1 ab, Ph 2 a or Ph 12 a, Ma 2; Ma 3 is recommended.
Atomic and molecular quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, chemical dynamics, statistical mechanics, and thermodynamics.
Instructors:
Okumura (a), Wei (b), Beauchamp (c)
Ch 25
Introduction to Biophysical Chemistry: Thermodynamics
9 units (3-0-6)
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third term
Prerequisites: Ch 1 ab, Ph 2 a or Ph 12 a, Ma 2; Ch 21 a recommended.
Develops the basic principles of solution thermodynamics, transport processes, and reaction kinetics, with emphasis on biochemical and biophysical applications. Not offered 2021-22.
Ch 41 abc
Organic Chemistry
9 units (4-0-5)
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first, second, third terms
Prerequisites: Ch 1 ab or instructor's permission.
The synthesis, structure, and reaction mechanisms of organic compounds.
Instructors:
Grubbs (a), Hsieh-Wilson (b), Reisman (c)
Ch 80
Chemical Research
Offered to B.S. candidates in chemistry. Units in accordance with work accomplished. Prerequisite: consent of research supervisor. Experimental and theoretical research requiring a report containing an appropriate description of the research work.
Ch 81
Independent Reading in Chemistry
Units by arrangement
Prerequisites: instructor's permission.
Occasional advanced work involving reading assignments and a report on special topics. No more than 12 units in Ch 81 may be used as electives in the chemistry option.
Ch 82
Senior Thesis Research
9 units
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first, second, third terms
Prerequisites: Instructor's permission.
Three terms of Ch 82 are to be completed during the junior and/or senior year of study. At the end of the third term, students enrolled in Ch 82 will present a thesis of approximately 20 pages (excluding figures and references) to the mentor and the Chemistry Curriculum and Undergraduate Studies Committee. The thesis must be approved by both the research mentor and the CUSC. An oral thesis defense will be arranged by the CUSC in the third term for all enrollees. The first two terms of Ch 82 will be taken on a pass/fail basis, and the third term will carry a letter grade.
Instructors:
Agapie, staff
Ch 90
Oral Presentation
3 units (2-0-1)
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second term
Training in the techniques of oral presentation of chemical and biochemical topics. Practice in the effective organization and delivery of technical reports before groups. Strong oral presentation is an essential skill for successful job interviews and career advancement. Graded pass/fail. Class size limited to 12 students.
Instructor:
Bikle
Ch/ChE 91
Scientific Writing
3 units (2-0-1)
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first, second, third terms
Training in the writing of scientific research papers for chemists and chemical engineers. Fulfills the Institute scientific writing requirement.
Instructors:
Parker, Weitekamp
Ch 101
Chemistry Tutorials
3 units (1-0-2)
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third term
Small group study and discussion on special areas of chemistry, chemical engineering, molecular biology, or biophysics. Instructors drawn from advanced graduate students and postdoctoral staff will lead weekly tutorial sessions and assign short homework assignments, readings, or discussions. Tutorials to be arranged with instructors before registration.
Instructor:
Staff
Ch 102
Introduction to Inorganic Chemistry
9 units (4-0-5)
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third term
Prerequisites: Ch 41 ab.
Structure and bonding of inorganic species with special emphasis on spectroscopy, ligand substitution processes, oxidation-reduction reactions, organometallic, biological inorganic chemistry, and solid-state chemistry.
Instructors:
Hadt, See
Ch 104
Intermediate Organic Chemistry
9 units (4-0-5)
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second term
Prerequisites: Ch 41 abc.
A survey of selected topics beyond introductory organic chemistry, including reaction mechanisms and catalysis.
Instructor:
Fu
ChE/Ch/Bi/SEC 107
Social Media for Scientists
9 units (3-0-6)
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second term
An introduction to the use of social media for scientific communication. Social media platforms are discussed in the context of their use to professionally engage scientific communities and general audiences. Topics will include ethics, privacy, reputation management, ownership and the law, and will focus on the use and impact of social media for personal and professional career development. Lectures will include presentations by invited experts in various specialties, a number of whom will have worldwide recognition. Not offered 2021-2022.
Ch/Bi 110
Introduction to Biochemistry
12 units (4-0-8)
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first term
Prerequisites: Ch 41 abc or instructor's permission.
Lectures and recitation introducing the molecular basis of life processes. Topics will include the structure and chemical properties of biological macromolecules, molecular biology methods, biological catalysis, and an overview of metabolism.
Instructor:
Clemons
Ch/Bi 111
Biochemistry of Gene Expression
12 units (4-0-8)
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second term
Prerequisites: Ch/Bi 110; Bi 8 and Bi 122 recommended.
Lectures and recitation on the molecular basis of biological structure and function. Emphasizes the storage, transmission, and expression of genetic information in cells. Specific topics include DNA replication, recombination, repair and mutagenesis, transcription, RNA processing, and protein synthesis.
Instructors:
Campbell, Parker
Ch 112
Intermediate Inorganic Chemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
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first term
Prerequisites: Ch 102 or instructor's permission.
Introduction to group theory, ligand field theory, and bonding in coordination complexes and organotransition metal compounds. Systematics of bonding, reactivity, and spectroscopy of commonly encountered classes of transition metal compounds.
Instructor:
Agapie
Ch 117
Introduction to Electrochemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
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first term
Discussion of the fundamentals and applications of electrochemistry with an emphasis on the structure of electrode-electrolyte interfaces, the mechanism by which charge is transferred across it, experimental techniques used to study electrode reactions, and application of electrochemical techniques to study materials chemistry. Topics may vary but usually include diffusion, cyclic voltammetry, coulometry, irreversible electrode reactions, the electrical double layer, and kinetics of electrode processes.
Instructor:
See
Ch 120 ab
Nature of the Chemical Bond
a: 9 units (3-0-6), second term; b: (1-1-7), third term.
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second, third term
Prerequisites: general exposure to quantum mechanics (e.g., Ch 21 a).
Modern ideas of chemical bonding, with an emphasis on qualitative concepts useful for predictions of structures, energetics, excited states, and properties. Part a: The quantum mechanical basis for understanding bonding, structures, energetics, and properties of materials (polymers, ceramics, metals alloys, semiconductors, and surfaces), including transition metal and organometallic systems with a focus on chemical reactivity. The emphasis is on explaining chemical, mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of materials in terms of atomistic concepts. Part b: The student does an individual research project using modern quantum chemistry computer programs to calculate wavefunctions, structures, and properties of real molecules.
Instructor:
Goddard
Ch 121 ab
Atomic-Level Simulations of Materials and Molecules
Ch 121 a: 9 units (3-0-6) third term; Ch 121 b (1-1-7) first term
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third, first terms
Prerequisites: Ch 21 a or Ch 125 a.
Application of Atomistic-based methods [Quantum Mechanics (QM) and Molecular Dynamics (MD)] for predicting the structures and properties of molecules and solids and simulating the dynamical properties. This course emphasizes hands-on use of modern commercial software (such as Jaguar for QM, VASP for periodic QM, and LAMMPS for MD) for practical applications and is aimed at experimentalists and theorists interested in understanding structures, properties, and dynamics in such areas as biological systems (proteins, DNA, carbohydrates, lipids); polymers (crystals, amorphous systems, co-polymers); semiconductors (group IV, III-V, surfaces, defects); inorganic systems (ceramics, zeolites, superconductors, and metals); organo-metallics, and catalysis (heterogeneous, homogeneous, and electrocatalysis). Ch121a covers the basic methods with hands-on applications to systems of interest using modern software. The homework for the first 5 weeks emphasizes computer based solutions. For the second 5 weeks of the homework each student proposes a short research project and uses atomistic simulations to solve it. Ch121b each student selects a more extensive research project and uses atomistic simulations to solve it.
Instructor:
Goddard
Ch 122
Structure Determination by X-ray Crystallography
9 units (3-0-6)
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first term
Prerequisites: Ch 21 abc or instructor's permission.
This course provides an introduction to small molecule X-ray crystallography. Topics include symmetry, space groups, diffraction by crystals, the direct and reciprocal lattice, Patterson and direct methods for phase determination, and structure refinement. It will cover both theoretical and applied concepts and include hands-on experience in data collection, structure solution and structure refinement.
Instructor:
Takase
Ch 125 ab
The Elements of Quantum Chemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
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first, second terms
Prerequisites: Ch 21 abc or an equivalent brief introduction to quantum mechanics.
A treatment of quantum mechanics with application to molecular and material systems. The basic elements of quantum mechanics, the electronic structure of atoms and molecules, the interactions of radiation fields and matter, and time dependent techniques relevant to spectroscopy will be covered. The course sequence prepares students for Ch 225 and 226.
Instructors:
Cushing (a), Weitekamp (b)
Ge/Ch 127
Nuclear Chemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
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first term
Prerequisites: instructor's permission.
A survey course in the properties of nuclei, and in atomic phenomena associated with nuclear-particle detection. Topics include rates of production and decay of radioactive nuclei; interaction of radiation with matter; nuclear masses, shapes, spins, and moments; modes of radioactive decay; nuclear fission and energy generation. Given in alternate years; not offered 2021-2022.
Instructor:
Burnett
Ge/Ch 128
Cosmochemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
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first term
Prerequisites: instructor's permission.
Examination of the chemistry of the interstellar medium, of protostellar nebulae, and of primitive solar-system objects with a view toward establishing the relationship of the chemical evolution of atoms in the interstellar radiation field to complex molecules and aggregates in the early solar system that may contribute to habitability. Emphasis will be placed on identifying the physical conditions in various objects, timescales for physical and chemical change, chemical processes leading to change, observational constraints, and various models that attempt to describe the chemical state and history of cosmological objects in general and the early solar system in particular. Given in alternate years; Offered 2021-2022.
Instructor:
Blake
Ch/BMB 129
Introduction to Biophotonics
9 units (3-0-6)
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first term
Prerequisites: Ch 21 abc and Ch 125 recommended.
This course will cover basic optics and introduce modern optical spectroscopy principles and microscopy techniques. Topics include molecular spectroscopy, linear and nonlinear florescence microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, coherent microscopy, single-molecule spectroscopy, and super-resolution imaging.
Instructor:
Wei
Ch 135
Chemical Dynamics
9 units (3-0-6)
|
third term
Prerequisites: Ch 21 abc and Ch 41 abc, or equivalent, or instructor's permission.
Introduction to the kinetics and dynamics of chemical reactions. Topics include scattering cross sections, rate constants, intermolecular potentials, classical two-body elastic scattering, reactive scattering, nonadiabatic processes, statistical theories of unimolecular reactions, photochemistry, laser and molecular beam methods, theory of electron transfer, solvent effects, condensed phase dynamics, surface reactions, isotope effects. Not offered 2021-2022.
Ch/ChE 140 ab
Principles and Applications of Semiconductor Photoelectrochemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
|
third term
Prerequisites: APh/EE 9 ab or instructor's permission.
The properties and photoelectrochemistry of semiconductors and semiconductor/liquid junction solar cells will be discussed. Topics include optical and electronic properties of semiconductors; electronic properties of semiconductor junctions with metals, liquids, and other semiconductors, in the dark and under illumination, with emphasis on semiconductor/liquid junctions in aqueous and nonaqueous media. Problems currently facing semiconductor/liquid junctions and practical applications of these systems will be highlighted. Part a not offered 2021-22.
Instructor:
Lewis (b)
Ch 143
NMR Spectroscopy for Structural Identification
9 units (3-0-6)
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third term
Prerequisites: Ch 41 abc.
This course will address both one-dimensional and two-dimensional techniques in NMR spectroscopy which are essential to elucidating structures of organic and organometallic samples. Dynamic NMR phenomena, multinuclear, paramagnetic and NOE effects will also be covered. An extensive survey of multipulse NMR methods will also contribute to a clear understanding of two-dimensional experiments. (Examples for Varian NMR instrumentation will be included.)
Instructor:
Virgil
Ch 144 ab
Advanced Organic Chemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
|
first term
Prerequisites: Ch 41 abc; Ch 21 abc recommended.
An advanced survey of selected topics in modern organic chemistry. Topics vary from year to year and may include structural and theoretical organic chemistry; materials chemistry; macromolecular chemistry; mechanochemistry; molecular recognition/supramolecular chemistry; reaction mechanisms; reactive intermediates; pericyclic reactions; and photochemistry. Not offered 2021–22.
Ch 145
Chemical Biology of Proteins
9 units (3-0-6)
|
first term
Prerequisites: Ch 41 abc; Ch/Bi 110 recommended.
An advanced survey of current and classic topics in chemical biology. Content draws largely from current literature and varies from year-to-year. Topics may include the structure, function, and synthesis of peptides and proteins; enzyme catalysis and inhibition; cellular metabolism; chemical genetics; proteomics; posttranslational modifications; chemical tools to study cellular dynamics; and enzyme evolution. Not offered 2021-2022.
Ch 146
Bioorganic Chemistry of Nucleic Acids
9 units (3-0-6)
Prerequisites: Ch 41 ab.
The course will examine the bioorganic chemistry of nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA structures, molecular recognition, and mechanistic analyses of covalent modification of nucleic acids. Topics include synthetic methods for the construction of DNA and RNA; separation techniques; recognition of duplex DNA by peptide analogs, proteins, and oligonucleotide-directed triple helical formation; RNA structure and RNA as catalysts (ribozymes). Not offered 2021-22.
Ch/ChE 147
Polymer Chemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
|
first term
Prerequisites: Ch 41 abc.
An introduction to the chemistry of polymers, including synthetic methods and mechanisms of macromolecule formation, characterization techniques, reactivity, and applications.
Instructor:
Robb
ChE/Ch 148
Polymer Physics
9 units (3-0-6)
|
third term
An introduction to the physics that govern the structure and dynamics of polymeric liquids, and to the physical basis of characterization methods used in polymer science. The course emphasizes the scaling aspects of the various physical properties. Topics include conformation of a single polymer, a chain under different solvent conditions; dilute and semi-dilute solutions; thermodynamics of polymer blends and block copolymers; polyelectrolytes; rubber elasticity; polymer gels; linear viscoelasticity of polymer solutions and melts. Not offered 2021-2022.
Ch 149
Tutorial in Organic Chemistry
6 units (2-0-4)
|
first term
Prerequisites: Ch 41 abc and instructor's permission.
Discussion of key principles in organic chemistry, with an emphasis on reaction mechanisms and problem-solving. This course is intended primarily for first-year graduate students with a strong foundation in organic chemistry. Meets during the first three weeks of the term. Graded pass/fail.
Instructors:
Fu, Stoltz
Ch 153 abc
Advanced Inorganic Chemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
|
second (Ch 153 a), third (Ch 153 c to be offered 2021-2022, alternating with Ch 153 b in subsequent years) terms
Prerequisites: Ch 112 and Ch 21 abc or concurrent registration.
Ch 153 a: Topics in modern inorganic chemistry. Electronic structure, spectroscopy, and photochemistry with emphasis on examples from the research literature. Ch 153 b: Applications of physical methods to the characterization of inorganic and bioinorganic species, with an emphasis on the practical application of Moessbauer, EPR, and pulse EPR spectroscopies. Ch 153 c: Theoretical and spectroscopic approaches to understanding the electronic structure of transition metal ions. Topics in the 153bc alternate sequence may include saturation magnetization and zero-field splitting in magnetic circular dichroism and molecular magnetism, hyperfine interactions in electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, Moessbauer and magnetic Moessbauer spectroscopy, vibronic interactions in electronic absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopy, and bonding analyses using x-ray absorption and/or emission spectroscopies.
Instructors:
Gray, Winkler (a), Hadt (c)
Ch 154 ab
Organometallic Chemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
|
second, third terms
Prerequisites: Ch 112 or equivalent.
A general discussion of the reaction mechanisms and the synthetic and catalytic uses of transition metal organometallic compounds. Second term: a survey of the elementary reactions and methods for investigating reaction mechanisms. Third term: contemporary topics in inorganic and organometallic synthesis, structure and bonding, and applications in catalysis. b is not offered in 2021-22.
Instructor:
Peters (a)
ChE/Ch 155
Chemistry of Catalysis
9 units (3-0-6)
|
third term
Discussion of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalytic reactions, with emphasis on the relationships between the two areas and their role in energy problems. Topics include catalysis by metals, metal oxides, zeolites, and soluble metal complexes; utilization of hydrocarbon resources; and catalytic applications in alternative energy approaches. Not offered 2021-2022.
ChE/Ch 164
Introduction to Statistical Thermodynamics
9 units (3-0-6)
|
second term
Prerequisites: Ch 21 abc or instructor's permission.
An introduction to the fundamentals and simple applications of statistical thermodynamics. Foundation of statistical mechanics; partition functions for various ensembles and their connection to thermodynamics; fluctuations; noninteracting quantum and classical gases; heat capacity of solids; adsorption; phase transitions and order parameters; linear response theory; structure of classical fluids; computer simulation methods.
Instructors:
Wang, Chan
ChE/Ch 165
Chemical Thermodynamics
9 units (3-0-6)
|
first term
Prerequisites: ChE 63 ab or instructor's permission.
An advanced course emphasizing the conceptual structure of modern thermodynamics and its applications. Review of the laws of thermodynamics; thermodynamic potentials and Legendre transform; equilibrium and stability conditions; metastability and phase separation kinetics; thermodynamics of single-component fluid and binary mixtures; models for solutions; phase and chemical equilibria; surface and interface thermodynamics; electrolytes and polymeric liquids.
Instructor:
Wang
BMB/Bi/Ch 170
Biochemistry and Biophysics of Macromolecules and Molecular Assemblies
9 units (3- 0-6)
|
first term
Prerequisites: Ch/Bi 110.
Detailed analysis of the structures of the four classes of biological molecules and the forces that shape them. Introduction to molecular biological and visualization techniques. Not offered 2021-2022.
ESE/Ge/Ch 171
Atmospheric Chemistry I
9 units (3-0-6)
|
third term
Prerequisites: Ch 1 or equivalent.
A detailed course about chemical transformation in Earth's atmosphere. Kinetics, spectroscopy, and thermodynamics of gas-phase chemistry of the stratosphere and troposphere; sources, sinks, and lifetimes of trace atmospheric species; stratospheric ozone chemistry; oxidation mechanisms in the troposphere; aerosol chemistry.
Instructors:
Seinfeld, Wennberg
ESE/Ge/Ch 172
Atmospheric Chemistry II
3 units (3-0-0)
|
first term
Prerequisites: ESE/Ge/Ch 171 or equivalent.
A lecture and discussion course about active research in atmospheric chemistry. Potential topics include halogen chemistry of the stratosphere and troposphere; aerosol formation in remote environments; coupling of dynamics and photochemistry; development and use of modern remote-sensing and in situ instrumentation. Graded pass/fail. Given in alternate years; not offered 2021-2022.
Instructors:
Seinfeld, Wennberg
BMB/Bi/Ch 173
Biophysical/Structural Methods
9 units (3-0-6)
|
second term
Basic principles of modern biophysical and structural methods used to interrogate macromolecules from the atomic to cellular levels, including light and electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, single molecule techniques, circular dichroism, surface plasmon resonance, mass spectrometry, and molecular dynamics and systems biological simulations. Not offered 2020-21.
Instructors:
Jensen, and other guest lecturers
BMB/Bi/Ch 174
Advanced Topics in Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics
6 units (3-0-3)
|
first term
Prerequisites: Ch/Bi 110 or equivalent.
Discussion of research fields in biochemistry and molecular biophysics at Caltech. Development of skills in literature analysis and information synthesis.
Instructors:
Chong, Semlow, and guest lecturers
ESE/Ch 176
Environmental Physical Organic Chemistry Part I
9 units (3-0-6)
|
second term
Prerequisites: Ch 41ab or instructor's permission.
This course will cover selected aspects of the chemistry of aquatic systems. Lectures cover basic principles of physical-organic chemistry relevant to the aquatic environment under realistic conditions. Specific topics covered in Part I include the basic principles of equilibrium chemical and physical processes important natural waters. Topics include: chemical potential, fugacity, phase transfer, acid-base chemistry, metal-ligand substitution chemistry, surface chemistry, octanol-water partitioning, air-water partitioning, partitioning to solid organic matter and biomedia, sorption processes, air-water exchange dynamics, and the kinetics and mechanisms of coupled organic and inorganic redox reactions. Thermodynamics, transport, phase transfer and kinetics are emphasized.
Instructor:
Hoffmann
ESE/Ch 177
Environmental Physical Organic Chemistry Part II
9 units (3-0-6)
|
third term
Prerequisites: ESE/Ch 176 or instructor's permission.
This course will cover selected aspects of the organic chemistry of aquatic systems and coupled air-water systems. Topics include photochemical transformations, biochemical transformations in sub-surface water, surface water, and sediments, heterogeneous surface reactions and catalysis, hydrolysis reactions, nucleophilic displacement and substitution reactions, elimination reactions, carboxylic acid ester hydrolysis, thiophosphoric acid ester hydrolysis, carbamate ester hydrolysis, and amide ester hydrolysis. The primary goal is to better understand factors controlling the fate and behavior of organic compounds and persistent organic pollutants in the global environment. Case studies will be presented.
Instructor:
Hoffmann
BMB/Ch 178
Macromolecular Function: kinetics, energetics, and mechanisms
9 units (3-0-6)
|
first term
Prerequisites: Ch/Bi 110 or equivalent.
Discussion of the energetic principles and molecular mechanisms that underlie enzyme's catalytic proficiency and exquisite specificity. Principles of allostery, selectivity, and enzyme evolution. Practical kinetics and their application to more complex biological systems, including steady-state and pre-steadystate kinetics, kinetic simulations, and kinetics at single molecule resolution.
Instructor:
Shan
Ch 180
Chemical Research
Units by arrangement
Offered to M.S. candidates in chemistry. Graded pass/fail.
BMB/Ch 202 abc
Biochemistry Seminar Course
1 unit
|
first, second, third terms
The course focuses on a seminar on selected topics from outside faculty on recent advances in biochemistry. Components for each faculty visit include participation in a recitation, a formal discussion section with visiting faculty, and attendance of the Biochemistry seminar. Biochemistry Seminars take place 1-2 times per month (usually 4pm on Thursdays).
Ch 212
Bioinorganic Chemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
|
third term
Prerequisites: Ch 112 and Ch/Bi 110 or equivalent.
Current topics in bioinorganic chemistry will be discussed, including metal storage and regulation, metalloenzyme structure and reactions, biological electron transfer, metalloprotein design, and metal-nucleic acid interactions and reactions. Not offered 2021-22.
Ch 213 abc
Advanced Ligand Field Theory
12 units (1-0-11)
|
first, second, third terms
Prerequisites: Ch 21 abc or concurrent registration.
A tutorial course of problem solving in the more advanced aspects of ligand field theory. Recommended only for students interested in detailed theoretical work in the inorganic field.
Instructor:
Gray
Ch 225
Advanced Quantum Chemistry
9 units (3-0-6)
|
second term
Prerequisites: Ch125ab or equivalent, or permission of instructors.
The electronic structure of atoms and molecules, the interactions of radiation fields and matter, scattering theory, and reaction rate theory. Not offered 2021-2022.
Ch 226
Optical and Nonlinear Spectroscopy
9 units (3-0-6)
|
third term
Prerequisites: Ch125ab, or equivalent instruction in quantum mechanics.
Quantum mechanical foundations of optical spectroscopy as applied to chemical and material systems. Topics include optical properties of materials, nonlinear and quantum optics, and multidimensional spectroscopy.
Instructors:
Blake, Cushing
BMB/Ch 230
Macromolecular Structure Determination with Modern X-ray Crystallography Methods
12 units (2-4-6)
|
third term
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Advanced course in macromolecular crystallography integrating lecture and laboratory treatment of diffraction theory, crystallization (proteins, nucleic acids and macromolecular complexes), crystal characterization, X-ray sources and optics, crystal freezing, X-ray diffraction data collection (in-house and synchrotron), data reduction, multiple isomorphous replacement, single- and multi-wavelength anomalous diffraction phasing techniques, molecular replacement, electron density interpretation, structure refinement, structure validation, coordinate deposition and structure presentation. In the laboratory component, one or more proteins will be crystallized and the structure(s) determined by several methods, in parallel with lectures on the theory and discussions of the techniques
Instructor:
Hoelz
Ch 242 ab
Chemical Synthesis
9 units (3-0-6)
|
first, second terms
Prerequisites: Ch 41 abc.
An integrated approach to synthetic problem solving featuring an extensive review of modern synthetic reactions with concurrent development of strategies for synthesis design. Part a will focus on the application of modern methods of stereocontrol in the construction of stereochemically complex acyclic systems. Part b will focus on strategies and reactions for the synthesis of cyclic systems.
Instructors:
Stoltz (a), Reisman (b)
Ch 247
Organic Reaction Mechanisms
9 units (3-0-6)
|
second term
Prerequisites: Ch 41 abc, Ch 242 a recommended.
This course will discuss and uncover useful strategies and tactics for approaching complex reaction mechanisms prevalent in organic reactions. Topics include: cycloaddition chemistry, rearrangements, radical reactions, metal-catalyzed processes, photochemical reactions among others. Recommended only for students interested in advanced study in organic chemistry or related fields. Not offered 2021-22.
Ch 250
Advanced Topics in Chemistry
3 units
|
third term
Content will vary from year to year; topics are chosen according to the interests of students and staff. Visiting faculty may present portions of this course. In Spring 2020 the class will be a seminar course in pharmaceutical chemistry with lectures by industrial researchers from both discovery (medicinal chemistry) and development (process chemistry) departments. Not offered 2021-2022.
Ch 251
Advanced Topics in Chemical Biology
9 units (3-0-6)
|
second term
Prerequisites: Ch 145 or 146 or consent of the instructor.
Advanced Topics in Chemical Biology. Hours and units to be arranged. Content will vary from year to year; topics are chosen according to the interests of students and staff. Not offered 2021-2022.
Ch 252
Advanced Topics in Chemical Physics
Hours and units to be arranged
Content will vary from year to year; topics are chosen according to the interests of students and staff. Not offered 2021-22.
Ch/Bi 253
Advanced Topics in Biochemistry
6 units (2-0-4)
|
third term
Hours and units to be arranged. Content will vary from year to year; topics are chosen according to the interests of students and staff. Not offered 2021-2022.
Ch 279
Rotations in Chemistry
Variable units as arranged with the advising faculty member
|
first, second, third terms
By arrangement with members of the faculty, properly qualified graduate students will have the opportunity to engage in a short-term research project culminating in a presentation to their peers enrolled in the course and participating laboratories. (Pass-Fail only).
Ch 280
Chemical Research
Hours and units by arrangement
By arrangement with members of the faculty, properly qualified graduate students are directed in research in chemistry.
Published Date:
Aug. 18, 2025