CHM 312: Physical Methods in Chemistry - spring

Prerequisites: CHM 307, 315 and 411 with a grade of C- or better

Upper-level laboratory course with prelab lecture integrating experimental methods and concepts from physical chemistry and biochemistry. Emphasizes quantitative analysis, molecular-level interpretation, and experimental design. Experiments will test established theoretical principles introduced in CHM 315, 316 and 411. Students will investigate thermodynamics, kinetics, spectroscopy, and molecular interactions using chemically and biologically relevant systems. Basic biochemical techniques include spectrophotometry, electrophoresis, chromatography, ultracentrifugation, enzyme digestion and their application to biomolecules. The course emphasizes data analysis, uncertainty propagation, scientific writing, and laboratory methods and skills. Experiments will provide the student with basic experience in obtaining precise physical measurements of chemical/biochemical interest.