2025 (Current Year) Faculty Courses Liberal arts and basic science courses Basic science and technology courses
Basic Quantum Chemistry J
- Academic unit or major
- Basic science and technology courses
- Instructor(s)
- Tadashi Kawamoto
- Class Format
- Lecture
- Media-enhanced courses
- -
- Day of week/Period
(Classrooms) - Class
- J
- Course Code
- LAS.C105
- Number of credits
- 100
- Course offered
- 2025
- Offered quarter
- 4Q
- Syllabus updated
- Mar 24, 2025
- Language
- Japanese
Syllabus
Course overview and goals
This course covers fundamentals of quantum chemistry. Following the overview of the old quantum theory, the precursor of the quantum mechanics, an outline of the ideas of quantum mechanics is presented, which is widely used later in this course. The simplest problem, a particle in a box, is then discussed to show the difference between the classical mechanics and quantum mechanics in detail. The electronic structure of hydrogen atoms and many-electron atoms are presented as a basis of quantum chemistry of molecules. Finally the chemical bonding and structure of molecules are discussed.
As one of the science and engineering basic courses required by all Tokyo Tech students, this course provides essential contents of quantum chemistry in chemistry field. Students will acquire general knowledge, methods and way of thinking on chemistry.
Course description and aims
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
1) Explain the outline of quantum mechanics
2) Explain the periodic law of the elements on the basis of quantum states of electrons in atoms
3) Explain the chemical bond in terms of quantum states of electrons in molecules
4) Explain the structure and energy of simple molecules in terms of molecular orbitals
Keywords
wave equation, electronic state, Pauli principle, chemical bond, atomic and molecular orbital
Competencies
- Specialist skills
- Intercultural skills
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Practical and/or problem-solving skills
Class flow
Basically, each class covers one chapter in the textbook according to the course schedule. Each class consists of outline of basic topics, explanation of exercise problems, and introduction of related topics. Students are required to learn outside of the classroom for preparation and review purposes under the instructor's guidance.
Course schedule/Objectives
| Course schedule | Objectives | |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Overview of old quantum theory Black body radiation, photoelectric effect, and emission of radiation from hydrogen atoms | Read chapter 1 in the textbook and understand basic knowledge. Solve related exercise problems. |
| Class 2 | Outline of the ideas of quantum mechanics Schrödinger equation, Hamiltonians and Operators | Read chapter 2 in the textbook and understand basic knowledge. Solve related exercise problems. |
| Class 3 | A particle in a box Comparison between classical mechanics and quantum mechanics | Read chapter 3 in the textbook and understand basic knowledge. Solve related exercise problems. |
| Class 4 | Hydrogen atom Hamiltonian for single electron systems, angular momentum, wavefunctions and energy levels | Read chapter 4 in the textbook and understand basic knowledge. Solve related exercise problems. |
| Class 5 | Many-electron atom Atomic orbital, electron spin, Pauli principle, electron configuration, and periodic law of the elements | Read chapter 5 in the textbook and understand basic knowledge. Solve related exercise problems. |
| Class 6 | Structure and energy of molecules I H2+ ion, molecular orbitals, and orbital energies | Read chapter 6 in the textbook and understand basic knowledge. Solve related exercise problems. |
| Class 7 | Structure and energy of molecules II H2 molecule, molecular orbitals and chemical bonding, and hybrid orbitals and molecular structure | Read chapter 7 in the textbook and understand basic knowledge. Solve related exercise problems. |
Study advice (preparation and review)
To enhance effective learning, students are encouraged to spend approximately 100 minutes preparing for class and another 100 minutes reviewing class content afterwards (including assignments) for each class.
They should do so by referring to textbooks and other course material.
Textbook(s)
Basic Chemistry for Science and Engineering Students - Quantum Chemistry; by Yasuhiro Ohshima, et al.; Kagaku-dojin
Reference books, course materials, etc.
None.
Material may be provided via Science Tokyo LMS.
Evaluation methods and criteria
Students' knowledge of basic topics of quantum chemistry covered in the course will be assessed by final exam. Details are announced in the lecture.
Related courses
- LAS.C110 ： Chemistry Laboratory I
- LAS.C112 ： Chemistry Laboratory II
Prerequisites
None.