CHEM 7870 - Mathematical Methods of Physical Chemistry

Fall. 4 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisites: One year of undergraduate physical chemistry, three semesters of calculus, and one year of college physics. Chem 7870 will provide the mathematical background needed for graduate level study of topics in physical chemistry, such as quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics, as well as, a set of analytical and computational tools useful for research in both experimental and theoretical physical chemistry.

G. S. Ezra.

Topics include linear algebra, matrices, and the eigenvalue problem; functions of a complex variable and contour integration; methods of solution of relevant differential equations; special functions; Laplace and Fourier transforms; discrete Fourier transform and the FFT. The program Mathematica(r) is employed throughout for both analytical and numerical work. At the level of Mathematical Methods for Scientists and Engineers by McQuarrie, and Mathematical Methods for Physicists by Arfken and Weber.

The course is suitable for graduate students in Chemistry and related fields, and for motivated undergraduates, including but not limited to Chem majors.