Chemistry
S = Objectives
Undergraduate Concentration
The chemistry concentration
offers a broad training in modern chemistry, covering the major
subfields--biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and physical--and
at the same time allowing students to pursue their special interest(s).
Chemistry is the central science and chemistry concentration provides
a solid preparation for professional work in chemistry and allied
fields; for study at the graduate level, in chemistry and in other
related fields (biochemistry, environmental science, pharmacology,
polymer science, etc.); for professional schools (e.g., medicine,
dentistry); and for developing an understanding of the technological
and scientific issues challenging our society today--useful professionally
in law and business, as well as in everyday life. Chemistry concentrators
are given the opportunity to develop extensive, practical experience,
through laboratory courses using both macro- and microscale techniques.
Chemistry concentrators are encouraged to participate in independent
research, which is a very important part of a scientific education.
Graduate Program in Chemistry
The graduate program in chemistry,
leading to the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees, includes course work, seminar
participation, and research, and is designed to lead to a broad
understanding of the subject. Entering students may be admitted
to either the master's or the doctoral program. The Ph.D. is offered
with specializations in inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry,
and chemical physics. All students will be required to demonstrate
knowledge in advanced areas of inorganic, organic, and physical
chemistry. The doctoral program is designed to be flexible so
that individual programs of study may be devised to satisfy the
particular interests and needs of each student. In each case this
program will be decided by joint consultation between the student,
the Graduate Studies Committee, and the thesis supervisor, when
selected. The doctoral program will normally include a basic set
of courses in the student's own area of interest, to be supplemented
by advanced courses in chemistry and, where appropriate, biochemistry,
biology, mathematics, and physics.
Ph.D. in Chemistry with Specialization in Chemical Physics
The graduate program in chemical physics is an interdisciplinary specialization designed to meet the needs of students who wish to prepare themselves for the study of scientific problems using the methods and theories of modern physics and physical chemistry. This objective is attained by (1) formal course work in chemistry, physics and, possibly, mathematics; (2) participation in relevant graduate seminars; (3) a program of supervised research involving chemical physics; and (4) independent study. The program is designed to be flexible in providing individual programs of study to satisfy the particular interests and needs of each student. Final programs of study and research will be arrived at by the student, the student's research supervisor, and the Chemical Physics Committee. Only candidates for the Ph.D. degree will be accepted. A master's degree is not offered, but students who satisfy the appropriate requirements will be eligible for the M.S. degree in chemistry.
S = How to Become an Undergraduate Concentrator
The most important qualification for becoming a chemistry concentrator is interest in and enjoyment of chemistry. In chemistry, as in other sciences, courses build on each other: therefore, it is important to begin early. Most students (but not all) take general chemistry and calculus in their first year. Students are required to take PHYS 11a,b (Basic Physics I, II) to provide a strong foundation for physical chemistry. Every October, interested students meet with chemistry faculty and concentrators at a "meet the majors" gathering called to discuss concentration in chemistry. Students should consult with their faculty advisors to develop a program of courses to shape their needs and interests. To apply for the Honors Program, a student must select a research advisor and submit a proposed plan to the department by September 10 of his or her senior year.
G = How to Be Admitted to the Graduate Program
The general requirements for admission to the Graduate School, given in an earlier section of this Bulletin, apply to candidates for admission to the graduate program in chemistry. In addition, the undergraduate curriculum of applicants should include courses in physics and mathematics (differential and integral calculus) and courses in general, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry.
S = Faculty
Judith Herzfeld, Chair
Statistical thermodynamics
of spontaneous order in crowded solutions of self-assembling proteins
and surfactants. Solid state NMR studies of structure and function
in biological membranes.
Iu-Yam Chan, Graduate Advising Head
Magnetic resonance and optical
spectroscopy under pressure. Dynamics of quantum tunneling reactions.
Emily Dudek, Undergraduate Advising Head
Coordination compounds of transition
metals. Synthesis of polynuclear chelates. Characterization of
compounds through magnetic and spectroscopic properties.
Irving Epstein
Oscillating chemical reactions
and dynamic instabilities. Mathematical modeling of biochemical
kinetics and neural systems.
Bruce Foxman
X-ray structure determination.
Coordination polymers. Chemical, physical, and crystallographic
studies of solid-state reactions. Automatic solution of crystal
structures using novel computer techniques.
Dana Gordon
Total synthesis of natural
products. Molecular biology of drug action. Development of new
synthetic methods. Molecular recognition. Carbohydrate chemistry.
Michael Henchman
Thermodynamics and kinetics.
Chemistry of ions in the gas phase and applications to interstellar
molecules and solution chemistry. Application of science to the
examination of works of art. Image analysis.
James Hendrickson
Synthesis of natural products.
Computerization of synthesis design and development of new synthetic
reactions.
Peter Jordan
Statistical mechanics of membrane
transport. Electrostatic modeling of ion pores. Molecular dynamics.
Theories of ionic solvation.
Philip Keehn
Synthetic methods, organic
synthesis of strained rings, and theoretically interesting molecules.
Host-guest complexes. Plant medicinals. Applications of NMR spectroscopy
to organic systems. Photooxidation. Laser chemistry.
Wenbin Lin
Organometallic and inorganic
synthesis. Photonic and electroactive coordination complexes.
Homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis. Molecular self-assembly
and surface chemistry.
Gregory Petsko (Director, Rosenstiel Center)
Protein crystallography, especially
direct observation of transient species by low-temperature and
Laue methods. Signal transduction in allergy and chemotaxis. Protein
dynamics. Protein engineering. Structure/function of p-glycoproteins.
Yeast genetics.
Thomas Pochapsky
Self-assembly of chemical and
biological systems. Transient interactions in solution by NMR.
NMR of soluble proteins. Protein stability and folding by NMR
and mutagenesis.
Dagmar Ringe (Rosenstiel Center)
Protein crystallography and
protein engineering. Rational drug design. Mechanisms for enzymatic
catalysis by diffraction and mutagenesis. Structure and function
of PLP containing enzymes, GTP binding proteins, and DNA binding
proteins. Modular protein design.
Barry Snider
Development of new synthetic
methods. Mechanisms of synthetically important reactions. Total
synthesis of natural products.
Colin Steel
Chemistry of excited molecules
and radicals. The kinetics and mechanisms of photochemical and
thermal reactions. Photophysics and photochemistry of infrared
laser-induced reactions.
Thomas Tuttle
Chemistry of liquid solutions.
Composition and structures of species in metal solutions in polar
solvents. Application of spectroscopy, e.g., magnetic resonance,
optical and spectropolarimetry, to elucidation of the composition
and structure of solutions. Theory of chemical species in solution.
Anatol Zhabotinsky
Chemical and biological kinetics. Oscillating chemical reactions. Chemical waves and pattern formation. Metabolic regulation. Dynamics of cell populations.
S = Requirements for the Undergraduate Concentration
Degree of Bachelor of Arts
A.
Two semesters of general chemistry lectures (CHEM 10a,b; 11a,b
or 15a,b) with laboratory (CHEM 18a,b; 19a,b).
B.
Five semester lecture courses, at least four of them in CHEM,
chosen from among CHEM 25a,b and courses in CHEM or BCHM numbered
40 or higher (including BIBC 105b and NBCH 148b). Courses should
include at least one in each of the following subfields: inorganic
chemistry (CHEM 121a, 122b), organic chemistry (CHEM 25a,b), physical
chemistry (CHEM 41a,b).
C.
CHEM 29a plus three laboratory courses chosen from CHEM 29b, 39b,
59a, or 59b.
D.
MATH 10a,b or 11a,b; and PHYS 11a,b.
E.
Additional requirements for degree with departmental honors: Two
semesters of CHEM 99d (Senior Research); grade point average of
3.00 or higher in all courses offered for concentration, including
laboratories. Students must petition the department by September
10 of their senior year to enter the Senior Honors Program. Students
interested in taking a program of study approved by the American
Chemical Society should consult their faculty advisors.
F.
Students planning to pursue graduate study in chemistry should
be sure that their program of study includes at least two semesters
each of organic chemistry lectures (CHEM 25a,b) and laboratory
(CHEM 29a,b) and physical chemistry lectures (CHEM 41a,b) and
laboratory (CHEM 59a,b). Physics laboratory (PHYS 19a,b), a reading
knowledge of a foreign language (preferably German) and a working
knowledge of a computer language are also advisable.
G.
All transfer students must pass satisfactorily a minimum of three
chemistry or biochemistry courses at Brandeis at a level of CHEM
25 or higher with one of the three being CHEM 39b, 59a, or 59b.
H.
A student may graduate with a double concentration in biology
and chemistry if the concentration requirements in each department
are fully met.
I.
A student may graduate with a double concentration in chemistry
and biochemistry if the concentration requirements in each department
are fully met.
Degree of Bachelor of Science
A.
Two semesters of general chemistry lectures (CHEM 10a,b; 11a,b;
or 15a,b) with laboratory (18a,b; 19a,b).
B.
Two semesters of organic chemistry lectures (CHEM 25a,b) with
laboratory (29a,b).
C.
Two semesters of physical chemistry lectures (CHEM 41a,b).
D.
One semester of inorganic chemistry lectures (CHEM 121a or 122b).
E.
Three four-credit laboratory courses (CHEM 39b; 59a,b; or one
arranged with a laboratory instructor).
F.
Two additional 100-level CHEM courses. (A 100-level BCHM course
may be substituted for one of the two courses.)
G.
MATH 10a,b and PHYS 11a,b.
H.
Additional requirements for degree with departmental honors: Two
semesters of CHEM 99d (Senior Research) and a grade point average
of 3.00 or higher in all courses offered for concentration including
laboratories. Students must petition the department by September
10 of their senior year to enter the senior honor program.
I.
For students planning to pursue graduate study in chemistry, physics
laboratory PHYS 19a,b (Physics Laboratory I, II) a reading knowledge
of a foreign language (preferably German), and a working knowledge
of a computer language are advisable.
J.
All transfer students must pass satisfactorily a minimum of three
chemistry or biochemistry courses at Brandeis at a level of CHEM
25 or higher with one of the three being CHEM 39b, 59a, or 59b.
Combined B.A./M.S. Program
Candidates for departmental honors may be admitted to a special four-year B.A./M.S. program upon recommendation of the department and the Graduate School. Application must be made by May 1 preceding the senior year. Students must complete requirements A-E as described in the requirements for degree of Bachelor of Arts. Additionally, a 130-level organic course, a 140-level physical course, and two other 100-level courses from the School of Science must be taken. At least four of these courses may not be counted towards the concentration requirement. Grades of B- or better are required in the 100-level science courses.
S = Requirements for the Undergraduate Minor
The minor in chemistry consists
of the equivalent of six full-credit (four-semester-hour) courses
and three half-credit (two-semester-hour) courses:
A.
CHEM 11a and 11b (or CHEM 10a and 10b, or 15a and 15b).
B.
CHEM 18a and 18b (or 19a and 19b).
C.
CHEM 25a.
D.
CHEM 29a.
E. Three additional full-credit (four-semester-hour) chemistry courses that meet the concentration requirements. BCHM 101a, 101b, or 104b may count as one of the three courses.
S = Special Notes Relating to Undergraduates
Either CHEM 10a,b lecture and CHEM 18a,b laboratory, or CHEM 11a,b lecture and CHEM 18a,b laboratory or CHEM 15a,b lecture and CHEM 19a,b laboratory will satisfy the general chemistry requirements of most medical schools. The organic chemistry requirements of most medical schools will be satisfied by CHEM 25a,b lecture and CHEM 29a,b laboratory.
G = Requirements for the Degree of Master of Science
Program of Study
Each candidate is required
to successfully complete one year of study at the graduate level
in chemistry, or, with prior permission of the Graduate Studies
Committee, in related fields. The program will include laboratory
work and, normally, six term courses at the graduate level. The
detailed program of study will be chosen jointly by the candidate
and the Graduate Studies Committee to reflect the candidate's
area of interest as well as a perspective of other areas.
Library Training Requirement
All graduate students are required
to complete a designated library training program in their first
year.
Placement and Evaluation of Progress
Recommendations for the course
of study in the first year will be based upon the performance
on the qualifying examinations.
Qualifying Examination
Each student is expected to
demonstrate a satisfactory knowledge of undergraduate chemistry
in qualifying examinations in physical, organic, and inorganic
chemistry. These examinations are set twice a year, before the
start of each term. The results of these examinations will determine
the student's initial program of course work and will be considered
by the Graduate Studies Committee in evaluating the student's
progress.
Residence Requirement
The minimum residence requirement
for the M.S. degree is one year.
Teaching
It is expected that all graduate students participate in undergraduate teaching during the course of their studies.
G = Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy
Program of Study
A balanced program of study
will be prepared by the students and the Graduate Studies Committee.
In general, students will be required to take a minimum of seven
graduate-level courses, of which two must be outside the student's
field of research. If a student fails to pass a qualifying examination
after two attempts, a graduate course must be taken in that area
of chemistry before the end of the second year. A list of courses
appropriate for this purpose is available upon request. For students
entering with a master's degree or the equivalent, two to five
courses may be transferred for credit. It is expected that doctoral
students will choose a research advisor during the first year,
normally in the second term.
Qualifying Examination
Each student is expected to
demonstrate a satisfactory knowledge of undergraduate chemistry
in qualifying examinations in physical, organic, and inorganic
chemistry. These examinations are set twice a year, before the
start of each term. The results of these examinations will determine
the student's initial program of course work and will be considered
by the Graduate Studies Committee in evaluating the student's
progress.
Placement and Evaluation of Progress
Recommendations for the course
of study in the first year will be based upon the performance
on the qualifying examinations. Admission to the Ph.D. degree
program will be based on the student's record in course work during
the first year and his or her performance on the qualifying examinations.
Further progress will be evaluated on a yearly basis by the Graduate
Studies Committee.
Residence Requirement
The minimum residence requirement
is three years.
Seminar
Each student in residence is
required to attend and participate in the seminar in their chosen
area of concentration throughout the period of graduate study.
Each student is expected to present two seminars during their
residence.
Teaching
It is expected that all graduate
students participate in undergraduate teaching during the course
of their studies.
Library Training Requirement
All graduate students are required
to complete a designated library training program in their first
year.
Language and Computer Programming Requirements
Each student in the organic
and inorganic Ph.D. programs must demonstrate a useful reading
knowledge of scientific French, German, or Russian within the
first two years of residence. Each student in the physical chemistry
Ph.D. program must demonstrate a working knowledge of Fortran,
BASIC, or C.
Final Examinations
The graduate student must demonstrate
proficiency by taking final examinations in his or her major field:
organic, physical, or inorganic chemistry. In the organic chemistry
program, a cumulative examination procedure is used. Each year,
six one-hour examinations (on unannounced topics) and one three-hour
examination (on an announced reading) are given. Each one-hour
examination passed is worth one unit and each reading examination
is worth up to three units depending upon the pass level. The
final examination requirement is satisfied by the student having
accumulated nine units of which no more than six are from reading
examinations. In physical chemistry and inorganic chemistry, the
student is assigned a set of propositions generally during the
third term of graduate work. In physical chemistry the set consists
of three propositions; the student takes a written examination
on one proposition and is examined orally on all three. In inorganic
chemistry the student is assigned two propositions. The student
takes a written examination on one proposition and is examined
orally on a research proposal (supplied either by the student
or faculty) and the remaining proposition. Students in all fields
must maintain satisfactory progress by passing these examinations.
Dissertation and Defense
A dissertation is required
that describes the results of an original investigation and demonstrates
the competence of the candidate in independent investigation,
critical ability, and effectiveness of expression. The student
must successfully defend the dissertation in a Final Oral Examination.
L =
Requirements for the Degree
of Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry with Specialization in Chemical
Physics
Program of Study
It is expected that some candidates
for the Ph.D. degree in chemistry with specialization in chemical
physics may require a longer period of time in course work than
will students in either of the fields of physics or chemistry.
In general, the program for the Ph.D. in chemistry with specialization
in chemical physics will include eight term graduate courses:
four in physical chemistry, one in either organic or inorganic
chemistry, and three in physics. No specific course work in mathematics
is required, but students are expected to be familiar with the
techniques necessary for the proper pursuit of their research.
Students may satisfy their
program's course requirements in part or in its entirety by passing
(or giving evidence of ability to pass) the final examination
in the appropriate number of such courses. Courses in areas related
to chemistry and physics may also be considered by the Chemical
Physics Committee in partial fulfillment of the requirements.
Qualifying Examinations
Each student is expected to
demonstrate a satisfactory knowledge of undergraduate chemistry,
physics, and mathematics by the performance in three qualifying
examinations: organic or inorganic chemistry and one each in physical
chemistry and physics/mathematics. These examinations are set
twice a year, in August and January. The results of these examinations
will determine the student's initial program of course work and
also be considered by the Chemical Physics Committee in evaluating
the student's progress.
Library Training Requirement
All graduate students are required
to complete a designated library training program in their first
year.
Language and Computer Programming Requirements
There is no foreign language
requirement for the Ph.D. degree in chemical physics. Each student
must demonstrate a working knowledge of Fortran, BASIC, or C.
Seminar
Each student in residence is
required to attend and to participate in the Chemical Physics
Seminar. Participation in other seminars in physics and chemistry
is also recommended.
Teaching
It is expected that all graduate
students participate in undergraduate teaching during the course
of their studies.
Final Examinations
Final examinations in chemical
physics are generally taken during the third term of graduate
work. The student is assigned a set of three propositions; the
student takes a written examination on one proposition and is
examined orally on the remaining two.
Residence Requirement
The minimum residence requirement
for the Ph.D. degree is three years.
Dissertation and Defense
A dissertation is required that describes the results of an original investigation and demonstrates the competence of the candidate in independent investigation, critical ability, and effectiveness of expression. The student must successfully defend the dissertation in a Final Oral Examination.
S = Courses of Instruction
S = (1-99) Primarily for Undergraduate Students
CHSC 3a The Planet as an Organism: Gaia Theory and the Human Prospect
[ cl8 cl16 cl18 qr sn ]
Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in chemistry. Prerequisite: High school biology, chemistry, and algebra.
In the Gaian view, all life on Earth is part of a giant living organism that encompasses the entire planet with a global anatomy, metabolism, and physiology. This course explores the scientific basis for this view, the controversy surrounding it, and its implications for the human enterprise. Usually offered in odd years.
Ms. Herzfeld
CHSC 4a Chemicals and Toxicity
[ cl32 sn ]
Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in chemistry. Prerequisite: High school chemistry and biology.
The harmful actions of some naturally occurring chemicals have clinical, environmental, economic, and forensic consequences. Chemical, biological, and genetic factors that influence toxicity of selected substances, e.g., pesticides, chemical carcinogens as well as tobacco, will be considered. The rationale for antidotal therapy as well as procedures to assess toxicological activities and to estimate risk-benefit ratios will be reviewed. Usually offered in odd years.
Ms. Van Vunakis
CHSC 5a The Magnitude of Things and How on Earth They Matter
[ qr sn ]
Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in chemistry. Enrollment limited to 25.
Four statements concerning the age, condition, and destiny of earth as affected by humans are used to implement examinations of relevant issues. These examinations require knowledge in several scientific disciplines that will be provided as the substance of the course. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Tuttle
CHSC 7a Chaos
[ cl31 sn ]
Prerequisite: High school algebra. Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in chemistry. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have received credit for MATH 2a.
This course is devoted to the study, from theoretical and experimental perspectives, of the deterministic, nonrepetitive behavior of physical and biological systems that has come to be known as chaos. Students will examine not only the scientific, but also the philosophical, historical, and social contexts of the field. Usually offered every third year.
Mr. Epstein
CHSC 8b Chemistry and Art
[ cl35 qr sn ]
Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in chemistry. Lab fee: $25. Signature of the instructor required.
Topics include a scientific description of the materials and methods used in making works of art; light and the chemistry of color; pigments and dyes; restoration and conservation; scientific examination of artworks: the identification of fakes; and scientific probes of influence and style. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Henchman
CHEM 10a Basic Chemistry
[ qr sn ]
Signature of the instructor required. This course satisfies the quantitative reasoning requirement only when taken with the corresponding lab. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 11a or 15a in previous years.
Designed for students whose high school records indicate they are not prepared for CHEM 11. CHEM 10a,b will prepare students for organic chemistry, covering the general topics of CHEM 11 but with less sophistication. Three class hours plus one, one-hour recitation per week. The corresponding lab is CHEM 18a. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Dudek
CHEM 10b Basic Chemistry
[ qr sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 10a or the equivalent. Signature of the instructor required. This course satisfies the quantitative reasoning requirement only when taken with the corresponding lab. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 11b or 15b in previous years.
A continuation of CHEM 10a, covering the general topics of CHEM 11b, but with less sophistication. Three class hours plus one, one-hour recitation per week. The corresponding lab is CHEM 18b. Usually offered every year.
Staff
CHEM 11a General Chemistry: Principles of Material Evolution
[ qr sn ]
This course satisfies the quantitative reasoning requirement only when taken with the corresponding lab. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 10a or 15a in previous years.
Introduces chemical principles governing the evolution of our material world through the condensation and aqueous stages, including the first law of thermodynamics, nuclear properties, chemical periodicity, molecular shape, stoichiometry, phase changes, properties of aqueous solutions, dynamic equilibrium and acid-based reactions. Three class hours and one, one-hour recitation per week. The corresponding lab is CHEM 18a. Usually offered every year.
Messrs. Pochapsky and Snider
CHEM 11b General Chemistry: Principles of Material Evolution
[ qr sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 11a or the equivalent. This course satisfies the quantitative reasoning requirement only when taken with the corresponding lab. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 10b or 15b in previous years.
Introduces chemical principles governing the evolution of our material world through the prebiotic, biotic, and anthropic stages including quantum chemistry, coordination chemistry, entropy and the second law of thermodynamics, kinetics, redox and electrochemistry. Three class hours and one, one-hour recitation per week. The corresponding lab is CHEM 18b. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Herzfeld and Mr. Pochapsky
CHEM 15a Honors General Chemistry, Lectures
[ qr sn ]
Signature of the instructor or departmental invitation letter required. This course satisfies the quantitative reasoning requirement only when taken with the corresponding lab. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 10a or 11a in previous years.
An advanced version of CHEM 11a for students with good preparation. Three class hours and one, one-hour recitation per week. The corresponding laboratory is CHEM 19a. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Jordan
CHEM 15b Honors General Chemistry, Lectures
[ qr sn ]
A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 15a or the equivalent. A continuation of CHEM 15a. This course satisfies the quantitative reasoning requirement only when taken with the corresponding lab. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 10b or 11b in previous years.
An advanced version of CHEM 11b for students with good preparation. Three class hours and one, one-hour recitation per week. The corresponding laboratory is CHEM 19b. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Jordan
CHEM 18a General Chemistry Laboratory I
Corequisite: CHEM 11a. Dropping CHEM 11a (lecture) necessitates written permission from the lab instructor to continue with the lab. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $45 per semester. Enrollment limited to 40 per section. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 19a in previous years.
Develops modern laboratory techniques and demonstrates in practice the concepts of stoichiometry, ideal gas law, titrimetric and gravimetric analysis, and thermochemistry. Spectroscopy is introduced. One afternoon of laboratory per week. One, one-hour laboratory lecture per week. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Dudek
CHEM 18b General Chemistry Laboratory II
Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 18a and corequisite 11a. Corequisite: CHEM 11b. Dropping CHEM 11b (lecture) necessitates written permission from the lab instructor to continue with the lab. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $45 per semester. Enrollment limited to 44 per section. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 19b in previous years.
The second semester of the general chemistry laboratory program. Introduction to qualitative analysis, quantitative analysis via titration, cell potentials, and spectrophotometry. Experiments involve kinetics, acid-base equilibria, electrochemistry, thermodynamics, and coordination chemistry. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Dudek
CHEM 19a Honors General Chemistry Laboratory I
Corequisite: CHEM 15a. Dropping CHEM 15a (lecture) necessitates written permission from the lab instructor to continue with the lab. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $45 per semester. Enrollment limited to 12 per section. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 18a in previous years.
Develops modern laboratory techniques at a higher level than CHEM 18a, using advanced equipment. One afternoon of laboratory per week. One, one-hour laboratory lecture per week. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Chan
CHEM 19b Honors General Chemistry Laboratory II
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 19a; Corequisite: CHEM 15b. Dropping CHEM 15b (lecture) necessitates written permission from the lab instructor to continue with the lab. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $45 per semester. Enrollment limited to 12 per section. This course may not be taken for credit by students who have taken CHEM 18b in previous years.
Continuation of CHEM 19a and includes one long project. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Tuttle
CHEM 25a Organic Chemistry, Lectures
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 10b, 11b, 15b, or the equivalent.
Structure, reactions, preparations, and uses of the compounds of carbon. Three class hours and one, one-hour recitation per week. Usually offered every year. Multiple sections.
Messrs. Gordon and Keehn
CHEM 25b Organic Chemistry, Lectures
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 25a or its equivalent.
A continuation of CHEM 25a. Three class hours and one, one-hour recitation per week. Usually offered every year. Multiple sections.
Messrs. Gordon and Hendrickson
CHEM 29a Organic Chemistry Laboratory I
Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 18b or 19b or the equivalent. Corequisite: CHEM 25a. Dropping CHEM 25a necessitates written permission from lab instructor to continue with the lab. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $45. Enrollment limited to 35 per section.
Gives experience in the important techniques of organic chemical practice. Includes synthesis of typical organic compounds and characterization using analytical and instrumental procedures. One afternoon of laboratory per week. One, one-hour laboratory lecture per week. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Hollocher
CHEM 29b Organic Chemistry Laboratory II
Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 29a or the equivalent. Corequisite: CHEM 25b. Dropping CHEM 25b necessitates written permission from lab instructor to continue with the lab. May yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $45. Enrollment limited to 35 per section.
A continuation of CHEM 29a. One afternoon of laboratory per week. One, one-hour laboratory lecture per week. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Keehn
CHEM 33a Environmental Chemistry
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: One year of general chemistry, CHEM 10a,b; 11a,b; or 15a,b; or the equivalent.
Surveys our understanding of the undisturbed environment and how it developed, and addresses environmental problems arising from human activities. Relevant chemistry of the atmosphere and hydrosphere will be emphasized, with brief discussions of related science of the geosphere and biosphere. Usually offered in even years.
Staff
CHEM 34a Chemical Manufacturing and the Environment
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: One year of general chemistry, lecture and laboratory. Enrollment limited to 20.
The chemical industry is beginning to use innovative methods to transform its poor environmental record. This course studies plant and process design and monitoring, and the integration of environmental controls into these systems.
Mr. Walker
CHEM 39b Intermediate Chemistry Laboratory
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: Satisfactory grades (C- or better) in: CHEM 10a,b, 11a,b, 15a,b or equivalent; CHEM 18a,b, 19a,b or equivalent; CHEM 25a,b or equivalent; CHEM 29a,b or equivalent. Four semester-hour credits. Laboratory fee: $45 per semester. Enrollment limited to 10.
In this lab compounds are synthesized and a wide range of modern analytical methods--spectroscopic, electrical, and magnetic--are used to characterize the products. The lectures cover the instrumentation and its theoretical bases. One, four-and-a-half hour lab per week. Two, one-hour lab lectures per week. Usually offered in odd years.
Ms. Dudek
CHEM 41a Physical Chemistry, Lectures I
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: Satisfactory grades (C- or better) in CHEM 10b, 11b, 15b or equivalent; MATH 10a,b or equivalent; PHYS 11a,b. Organic chemistry is also recommended.
Topics in chemical thermodynamics including states of matter, phase equilibrium, nonideal systems, electrochemistry; introduction to statistical thermodynamics. Three lecture hours per week. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Steel
CHEM 41b Physical Chemistry, Lectures II
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: Satisfactory grades (C- or better) in CHEM 10b, 11b, 15b or equivalent; MATH 10a,b or equivalent; PHYS 11a,b. Organic chemistry is also recommended.
Topics include quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, and statistical thermodynamics. Three lecture hours per week. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Chan
CHEM 59a Advanced Experimental Chemistry
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 18b or equivalent; CHEM 41a or 41b (may be taken concurrently) or equivalent. Laboratory fee: $45 per semester.
An advanced course in methods and techniques of experimental chemistry. CHEM 59a and b form a two-semester sequence, either half of which may be taken independently. The program includes methodology of quantitative measurement, statistical data analysis, and report writing; and spectroscopic and other instrumental methods in a modern chemical research environment. Physicochemical phenomena are used as a vehicle in the study. One, one-hour lecture and one afternoon of laboratory per week. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Steel
CHEM 59b Advanced Experimental Chemistry
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade (C- or better) in CHEM 18b or equivalent; CHEM 41a or b (may be taken concurrently) or equivalent. Laboratory fee: $45 per semester.
See CHEM 59a for course description. Usually offered every year.
Staff
CHEM 95a Directed Studies in Chemistry
Prerequisites: CHEM 25a, and 29a, or equivalent. Does not meet the concentration requirements in chemistry. Laboratory fee: $45 per semester. Signature of the instructor required. May not be repeated for credit. A designated library training component must be completed as soon as it is offered.
Readings and/or independent laboratory work. Periodic conferences with advisor and a final written report. CHEM 95a and 95b may be taken individually as one-semester courses or together as a year-long sequence. Usually offered every year.
Staff
CHEM 95b Directed Studies in Chemistry
See CHEM 95a for special notes and course description. Usually offered every year.
Staff
CHEM 99d Senior Research
Prerequisites: CHEM 41a, 59a or 59b, or equivalent, which may be taken concurrently. Open only to senior honors candidates. Does not meet the concentration requirements in chemistry. Laboratory fee: $45 per semester. Permission of department and signature of the instructor required. A designated library training component must be completed as soon as it is offered.
A year-long course focused on a research project with a member of the department. Successful completion of the course will involve the writing of a detailed report on the project. Usually offered every year.
Staff
G = (100-199) For Both Undergraduate and Graduate Students
CHEM 110b Instrumental Analytical Chemistry
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: Satisfactory grade(s) in CHEM 41a and b, CHEM 59a and b, or equivalent. Laboratory fee: $45. Signature of the instructor required.
Techniques of instrumental chemical analysis. Application of instrumental methods to the separation and analysis of complex mixtures. Students rotate through ongoing research laboratories. Data treatment includes computers in the analytical chemistry laboratory. Two afternoons per week; approximately two hours of laboratory lecture and six hours of laboratory per week. Offered on request.
Staff
CHEM 111a Computational Chemistry
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: Satisfactory grades in CHEM 41a, b, or equivalent. Does not meet the concentration requirements in chemistry. Signature of the instructor required.
Selected topics in computational chemistry, including two or three of the following: small molecule modeling; biomolecular modeling; numerical integration methods; quantum mechanical modeling; least squares analyses; design of synthesis; data analysis. Practice in use of common software with consideration of their capabilities. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Petsko
CHEM 121a Inorganic Chemistry I, Lectures
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 25a and b. Signature of the instructor required.
Symmetry, structure, and bonding in inorganic compounds. Solid-state chemistry. Ionic and electronic conductors, including superconductors. Applications of group theory and bonding theory to main group compounds and transition metal complexes. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Foxman
CHEM 122b Inorganic Chemistry II, Lectures
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 25a and b. Signature of the instructor required.
Transition metal chemistry: physical and chemical properties of classical coordination compounds and organometallics, including spectra, magnetism, isomerism, reaction mechanisms, and catalysis. Inorganic rings, chains, and clusters. Introduction to bioinorganic chemistry. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Foxman
CHEM 130a Advanced Organic Chemistry: Structure
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in an undergraduate organic chemistry course. Signature of the instructor required.
Introduction to group theory and its application to molecular orbital theory and spectroscopy.
Staff
CHEM 131a Advanced Organic Chemistry: Topics in Structure and Reactivity
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in an undergraduate organic chemistry course. Signature of the instructor required.
Broad coverage of a variety of transformations involving additions, eliminations, substitutions, oxidations, reductions, and rearrangements. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Keehn
CHEM 132b Advanced Organic Chemistry: Spectroscopy
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in an undergraduate organic chemistry course. Signature of the instructor required.
Application of spectroscopy to the elucidation of structure and stereochemistry of organic compounds, with special emphasis on modern NMR methods. Usually offered every year.
Staff
CHEM 134b Advanced Organic Chemistry: Synthesis
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in an undergraduate organic chemistry course. Signature of the instructor required.
Modern synthetic methods are covered, with an emphasis on mechanism and stereochemical control and organometallic methods. Formation of carbon-carbon single and double bonds and carbocycles and procedures for oxidation, reduction, and functional group interchange are discussed. Selected total syntheses are examined. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Snider
CHEM 137b The Chemistry of Organic Natural Products
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: A satisfactory grade in CHEM 25a and b, or the equivalent. Signature of the instructor required.
Natural products chemistry will be surveyed within a biogenetic framework. Occurrence, isolation, structure elucidation, biogenesis, and synthesis will be covered with an emphasis on modern methods of establishing biogenesis and biogenetic type synthesis. Usually offered every year.
Staff
CHEM 141a Chemical Thermodynamics
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: Satisfactory grade in undergraduate physical chemistry. Familiarity with multivariable calculus. Signature of the instructor required.
Statistical, classical, and irreversible thermodynamics; principles, tools, and applications. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Steel
CHEM 141b Kinetics
[ sn ]
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in undergraduate physical chemistry. Signature of the instructor required.
Macroscopic kinetics: elementary reactions and rate laws. Kinetic study of reaction mechanisms: techniques for kinetic measurements; fast reactions; treatment of kinetic data. Microscopic kinetics: molecular dynamics, transition state theory. Reactions in the gas phase and in solution. Catalytic and chain reactions. Enzyme kinetics. Nonlinear dynamics: chemical oscillations and waves. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Zhabotinsky
CHEM 142a Quantum Chemistry
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: Passing grades in CHEM 41a and b, or equivalent. Signature of the instructor required.
This class will discuss solutions of the Schroedinger equation for simple systems; operator techniques and approximation methods; atoms; the Born-Oppenheimer approximation; diatomic molecules; polyatomic molecules; and introduction to quantum chemical calculation. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Chan
CHEM 145b Special Topics in Chemistry
[ sn ]
Prerequisites: Undergraduate physical chemistry and some familiarity with simple differential equations.
Topics vary from year to year. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1994.
Staff
CHEM 150b Special Topics in Chemistry
[ sn ]
Signature of the instructor required.
Topics vary from year to year. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the fall of 1996.
Staff
G = (200 and above) Primarily for Graduate Students
CHEM 200d Advanced Chemistry Laboratory
Usually offered every year.
Staff
CHEM 220c Inorganic Chemistry Seminar
Required of graduate students in inorganic chemistry, who must audit this course each year. Usually offered every year.
Staff
CHEM 229b Special Topics in Inorganic Chemistry: Introduction to X-ray Structure Determination
Topics include basic diffraction and space group theory, practical manipulations of crystals and X-ray diffraction equipment, solving crystal structures, and interpretation of structural chemistry. Course will feature self-paced tutorials on the VAX 8650. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1995.
Staff
CHEM 231c Organic Chemistry Seminar
Required of graduate students in organic chemistry, who must audit this course each year. Usually offered every year.
Staff
CHEM 232b Heterocyclic Chemistry
The nature of aromatic heterocycles will be surveyed, followed by detailed discussion of their characteristic reactions and modes of synthesis. The course is organized to show a general predictive framework behind the details. Emphasis is placed on the mechanisms of heterocycle reactions. Usually offered in odd years.
Staff
CHEM 234b Chemistry of Organometallic Compounds
The chemistry of organo-transition metal complexes, including their structures, chemical reactions, and use as reagents in organic synthesis. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1995.
Staff
CHEM 235b Advanced NMR Spectroscopy
A detailed discussion of modern NMR methods will be presented. The course is designed so as to be accessible to nonspecialists, but still provide a strong background in the theory and practice of modern NMR techniques. Topics include the theory of pulse and multidimensional NMR experiments, chemical shift, scalar and dipolar coupling, NOE, spin-operator formalism, heteronuclear and inverse-detection methods, Hartmann-Hahn and spin-locking experiments. Experimental considerations such as pulse sequence design, phase cycling, and gradient methods will be discussed. Guest lecturers will provide insight into particular topics such as solid-state NMR and NMR instrumental design. Usually offered in even years.
Staff
CHEM 241c Physical Chemistry Seminar
Required of graduate students in physical chemistry, who must audit this course each year. Usually offered every year.
Staff
CHEM 243b Statistical Thermodynamics
Elementary statistical mechanics of ensembles of molecules and applications to thermodynamic systems. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1996.
Staff
CHEM 250c Chemical Physics Seminar
Required of graduate students in chemical physics, who must audit this course each year. Usually offered every year.
Staff
L =
Research Courses
CHEM 404d Organic Chemistry
Synthesis of natural products; development of new synthetic reactions; computerization of synthesis design systematics.
Mr. Hendrickson
CHEM 405d Biochemistry
Structure and function proteins by X-ray crystallography, site-directed mutagenesis and molecular dynamics simulations; time-resolved studies of enzyme catalysis by Laue diffraction; and multi-drug resistance and the cystic fibrosis of gene product.
Mr. Petsko
CHEM 407d Biochemistry
Structure and function of proteins by kinetic and structural methods, coupled with low temperature and time-resolved diffraction methods; structures of native and mutant proteins, complexed and uncomplexed, aimed at modeling of active sites and specific inhibitors.
Ms. Ringe
CHEM 408d Physical Chemistry
Experimental and theoretical study of chemical species in solution; and spectroscopic investigations of metal solutions in polar solvents.
Mr. Tuttle
CHEM 410d Biophysical Chemistry
Statistical thermodynamics of long-range order in self-assembling systems and NMR studies of functional mechanisms in biological membranes.
Ms. Herzfeld
CHEM 411d Physical Chemistry
Chemistry of excited molecules and radicals and the kinetics and mechanisms of photochemical and thermal reactions; and photophysics and photochemistry of infrared laser-induced reactions.
Mr. Steel
CHEM 413d Physical Chemistry
Membrane transport; electrostatic modeling of ion pores; molecular dynamics of ionic motion in biological molecules; and theories of ionic solvation.
Mr. Jordan
CHEM 414d Physical Chemistry
Kinetic studies of the reactions and properties of ions in the gas phase. Scientific analysis of artworks.
Mr. Henchman
CHEM 415d Physical Chemistry
Experimental and theoretical studies of oscillating chemical reactions and dynamic instabilities; theoretical approaches to neurobiology and neural networks; mathematical modeling of biochemical kinetics and polymer aggregation.
Mr. Epstein
CHEM 416d Physical Chemistry
High-pressure effects on Jahn-Teller active molecules; dynamical processes in molecular crystals and one-dimensional aggregates; dynamics of quantum tunneling reactions.
Mr. Chan
CHEM 417d Organic Chemistry
Organic synthesis of strained rings and theoretically interesting molecules; synthetic methods; enclathration and host-guest complexation in tri-o-thymotide and calixarenes; plant medicinals; application of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to organic systems; photooxidation; thermal chemistry; laser chemistry.
Mr. Keehn
CHEM 418d Inorganic Chemistry
Synthesis of organic and metal-organic compounds for photonic and electronic applications. Spectroscopic investigations of novel photonic materials. Organometallic complexes in homogeneous catalysis. Molecular self-assembly.
Mr. Lin
CHEM 419d Inorganic Chemistry
X-ray structure determination; coordination polymers; chemical, physical, and crystallographic studies of solid-state reactions; and automatic solution of crystal structures using novel computer techniques.
Mr. Foxman
CHEM 421d Organic Chemistry
Synthetic methodology and natural product synthesis, carbon-carbon bond forming reactions of alkenes and their application to natural product synthesis, intramolecular reactions, oxidative free-radical cyclizations, ketene cycloadditions, ene and Prins reactions, and synthesis of biologically active natural products.
Mr. Snider
CHEM 422d Organic Chemistry
Total synthesis of therapeutic agents and molecular biological studies of their mode(s) of action; development of new synthetic methodology; and design of systems that self-assemble.
Mr. Gordon
CHEM 423d Organic Chemistry
Multimolecular complexes; amino acid residue side-chain interactions in peptides and proteins; and globular protein stability and protein structure by multidimensional and multinuclear NMR methods.
Mr. Pochapsky
Chemistry Colloquium
Lectures by faculty and invited speakers. Required of all graduate students. Noncredit.
S = Courses of Related Interest
NBIO 136b
Computational Neuroscience