Chemical Thermodynamics II: Equilibrium and Kinetics

Course Description

"Chemical Thermodynamics II: Equilibrium and Kinetics" is an engaging online course that delves deep into the fascinating world of multi-component thermodynamic systems. As the second part of a comprehensive two-course series, this program builds upon the foundational concepts introduced in Chemical Thermodynamics I, taking your understanding of chemical processes to new heights.

In this course, you'll explore the intricate relationships between entropy, free energy, and chemical potential, and how these fundamental principles govern chemical equilibria. You'll also investigate phase equilibria, diving into the complexities of different phases within the same chemical species. The course then seamlessly transitions into the dynamic realm of chemical kinetics, unraveling the mysteries of how chemical systems evolve over time.

What students will learn from the course

• Advanced application of thermodynamic principles to multi-component systems
• Understanding and calculation of chemical potential and its relation to equilibrium
• Analysis of chemical equilibria between different species
• Exploration of phase equilibria and phase diagrams
• Study of ideal and non-ideal solutions
• Kinetic description of chemical reactions
• Advanced topics such as catalysis, enzymatics, chain reactions, and oscillating chemical reactions

Pre-requisites or skills necessary to complete the course

• Undergraduate General Chemistry knowledge
• Basic understanding of single-component thermodynamics (completion of Chemical Thermodynamics I or equivalent is recommended)
• Proficiency in Multi-Variable Calculus

What the course will cover

• Chemical potential and its relationship to equilibrium
• One-component phase equilibria and phase diagrams
• Ideal and non-ideal solutions
• Kinetic descriptions of chemical reactions
• Molecular mechanisms and reaction dynamics
• Catalysis and enzymatic reactions
• Chain reactions
• Oscillating chemical reactions

Who this course is for

This course is ideal for undergraduate chemistry students looking to deepen their understanding of thermodynamics and kinetics. It's also perfect for mid-career professionals in chemistry-related fields aiming to advance their careers or pursue post-baccalaureate degrees in engineering and technology. Anyone with a strong foundation in general chemistry and calculus who wants to gain advanced knowledge in chemical equilibrium and kinetics will find this course invaluable.

How learners can use these skills in the real world

The concepts and skills learned in this course have wide-ranging applications in various industries and research fields. Understanding chemical equilibria and kinetics is crucial in:

1. Developing new pharmaceutical drugs and optimizing their production processes
2. Designing more efficient chemical reactors for industrial processes
3. Improving energy storage and conversion technologies
4. Addressing environmental challenges through better pollution control methods
5. Advancing materials science for creating novel materials with specific properties
6. Enhancing food processing and preservation techniques
7. Furthering biotechnology applications in medicine and agriculture

By mastering these concepts, learners will be equipped with powerful tools to analyze, predict, and control chemical processes, making them valuable assets in both academic research and industrial settings.