Chemistry
Chemistry provides the connection between molecular concepts and the complex systems found in nature. Chemistry courses stress the understanding of chemical principles, as well as the experimental basis of the science. The curriculum provides a strong foundation for graduate work in chemistry, biochemistry, and other chemistry-related areas, for positions in industry, for high school teaching, and for studies in the medical and health sciences. The department is on the list of those approved by the American Chemical Society (ACS). Students may choose to pursue an ACS certified degree. For more information about ACS certification refer to the Professional preparation section of this catalog. Detailed course requirements for certification can be found at http://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/chem/curriculum.
Prospective chemistry majors should begin their study of mathematics, physics and chemistry in the first year. Majors are encouraged to participate in summer or fall term scientific research programs off campus or in the Chemistry Department Summer Research Program at Carleton.
The Introductory Courses
Most first-year students will take Chemistry 123, Principles of Chemistry or Chemistry 128, Principles of Environmental Chemistry. Both are one-term courses designed for students who have had a good high school chemistry preparation. Although taught from slightly different perspectives, all sections of Chemistry 123 or Chemistry 128 will cover the fundamental topics that prepare students for further work in chemistry, biology, geology, or medicine. When scheduling permits, we also offer a section of Chemistry 123 with problem solving. This smaller section will have additional class meetings for problem solving and review and is appropriate for students who have had a high school chemistry course but want to ease into the study of college-level chemistry.
Students who have not had a high school chemistry course should take Chemistry 122, An Introduction to Chemistry, which is designed to prepare students with little or no prior work in chemistry for further study in the discipline. This course also includes class sessions with problem solving and review.
Students planning to take Chemistry 122, 123, or 128 should take the self-administered chemistry placement evaluation, available on the chemistry department home page. This evaluation covers topics dealing with simple formulas, equations, stoichiometry, gas laws, and the properties of solutions. It also includes a list of topics for you to review before you take the placement exam.
Requirements for a Major
Chemistry 123 or 128, 230, 233, 234, 301, 302, 343, 344; one of the following: 320, 324, 330, 348, 350, 351, 353, 354, 358, 359, 362, 363; and one of the following lab courses: 306, 321, 331, 338, 349, 352, 355, 364; Physics: two three-credit courses or one six-credit course from courses 131-165 and Mathematics 211. One additional 200-level physics course is strongly recommended (Physics 228, 235). Chemistry 400 is required of all majors.
Major under Combined Plan in Engineering (see also Engineering in index):
In addition to completing the requirements for the chemistry major listed above, the student should also take the following courses required for admission to the engineering schools: Physics 165 or 228, Mathematics 241, and Computer Science 111. At the discretion of the department, one advanced course may be waived in some instances to allow the student more latitude in selection of courses.
Chemistry Courses
CHEM 113 Concepts of Chemistry and Lab A one-term chemistry course designed for non-science majors. In this course we examine what gives rise to three-dimensional shapes of molecules and we explore how the structure and composition of molecules gives rise to chemical reactivity. Our goal is to understand readily observable phenomena (e.g. removal of grease by soap, storage of toxins in fat tissues, cancer, viruses, etc.). Topics include those of current global interest such as anthropogenic forces on the environment and energy producing technologies. The course includes one four-hour lab per week. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 122 An Introduction to Chemistry An introduction to the fundamentals of chemistry to prepare students to enter subsequent chemistry courses (Chemistry 123 or 128). Atoms and molecules, stoichiometry, and gases will be covered in the course. Although learning through discovery-based processes, small groups, and short laboratory experimentation will occur, this is not a lab course and doesn't fulfill the requirements for medical school. This course assumes competence with simple algebra, but no prior chemistry experience. Prerequisite: Students with high school chemistry should probably take Chemistry 123 or 128. (Determined by the self-administered Chemistry Placement Evaluation, Chemistry Home Page). 6 credits; QRE, NE; Winter; Daniela L Kohen
CHEM 123 Principles of Chemistry An introduction to chemistry for students who have taken high school chemistry or Chemistry 122. Topics include the electronic structure of atoms, periodicity, molecular geometry, thermodynamics, bonding, equilibrium, reaction kinetics, and acids and bases. Substantial independent project work is included in the lab. Each offering will also focus on a special topic(s) selected by the instructor. Students cannot receive credit for both Chemistry 123 and 128.
A section of Chemistry 123 with problem solving (Chem.123.02) is periodically offered for students who wish to further develop their general analytical and critical thinking skills. This smaller section will have additional class meetings for problem solving and review. Chemistry 123 with problem solving is appropriate for students who would like to have more scheduled time to work with a faculty member on developing their scientific reasoning skills and understanding of the foundations of chemistry. Prerequisite: Chemistry 122 or placement via Chemistry Placement Exam (see Chemistry Department webpage).
6 credits; LS, QRE; Fall, Winter, Spring; Matt Whited, Daniela L Kohen, Chris Calderone
CHEM 128 Principles of Environmental Chemistry The core topics of chemistry (i.e. thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, and bonding) are central to understanding major environmental topics such as greenhouse warming, ozone depletion, acid-rain deposition, and general chemical contamination in air, water, and soil. These topics and the chemical principles behind them are addressed through an emphasis on the earth's atmosphere. One four-hour laboratory per week. Because this course covers the major topics of Chemistry 123 (but with an environmental emphasis), students cannot receive credit for both Chemistry 123 and 128. Prerequisite: Chemistry 122 or placement via Chemistry Placement Exam (see Chemistry Department webpage). 6 credits; LS, QRE; Spring; Will Hollingsworth
CHEM 230 Equilibrium and Analysis This course builds on topics from introductory chemistry and deals with quantitative aspects of acid-base and electron-transfer equilibria. Numerical and graphical methods are developed for the examination of these chemical systems. Several modern analytical methods of analysis are introduced including UV spectrophotometry, simultaneous spectrophotometric determinations of mixtures, potentiometry, and flow injection analysis. One laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Chemistry 123 or 128; concurrent registration in Chemistry 230L. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Fall, Spring; Steven M Drew, Deborah S Gross
CHEM 233 Organic Chemistry I Theoretical aspects of carbon chemistry are examined with reference to structure-reactivity relationships, functional groups, stereochemistry, reaction mechanisms and spectroscopy. Laboratory work concentrates on modern techniques of organic chemistry, inquiry-based projects, and spectroscopic analysis. One laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Chemistry 123 or 128. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Fall, Winter; Joe Chihade, Buck L Taylor
CHEM 234 Organic Chemistry II The chemistry of functional groups is continued from Chemistry 233, and is extended to the multifunctional compounds found in nature, in particular carbohydrates and proteins. The laboratory focuses upon inquiry-based projects and spectroscopic analysis. One laboratory per week. Prerequisite: Chemistry 233. 6 credits; LS, QRE; Winter, Spring; Joe Chihade, Buck L Taylor
CHEM 301 Chemical Kinetics Laboratory A mixed class/lab course with one four hour laboratory and one lecture session per week. In class, the principles of kinetics will be developed with a mechanistic focus. In lab, experimental design and extensive independent project work will be emphasized. Prerequisite: Chemistry 224 and 233 and Mathematics 120 or 121. 3 credits; NE, QRE, WR2; Fall; Deborah S Gross, Trish Ferrett
CHEM 302 Quantum Spectroscopy Laboratory This lab course emphasizes spectroscopic studies relevant to quantum chemistry, including experiments utilizing UV-VIS, infrared absorption spectroscopy, and visible emission spectroscopy. Corequisite: Chemistry 344. Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Chemistry 344. 2 credits; QRE, NE; Winter; Will Hollingsworth, Trish Ferrett
CHEM 306 Spectrometric Characterization of Chemical Compounds This combined lecture and lab course teaches students how to use modern spectrometric techniques for the structural characterization of molecules. Lectures will cover topics and problems in the theory and practical applications associated with GC-Mass Spectrometry, ESI-Mass Spectrometry, Infrared, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (1H, 13C, and 2D experiments). Students will apply all of these techniques in the laboratory for the structural characterization of known and unknown molecules. Prerequisite: Chemistry 234 or instructor permission. 2 credits; QRE, NE; Spring; Matt Whited
CHEM 320 Biological Chemistry This course involves the natural extension of the principles of chemistry to biological systems. The topics to be examined center around the biochemical formation and cleavage of chemical bonds, with an emphasis on the structure and function of the proteins that mediate these processes. Prerequisite: Chemistry 234 and either Chemistry 224 or Biology 380. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Spring; Chris Calderone
CHEM 321 Biological Chemistry Laboratory Purification and characterization of proteins and nucleic acids, with a focus on enzyme kinetics and mechanism, macromolecular interactions with small molecules and the basis of specificity in biological systems. One laboratory per week. Corequisite: Chemistry 320. Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Chemistry 320; Chemistry 234 and either Chemistry 224 or Biology 380. 2 credits; NE, QRE; Spring; Chris Calderone
CHEM 324 Chemistry and Biology of Antibiotics This course will survey the mechanisms of antibiotic activity from a biochemical perspective, covering the major classes of antibiotics along with their respective biological targets using a combination of lecture and discussion of recent literature. We will also explore strategies for antibiotic discovery including combinatorial and rational approaches, as well as the molecular origins of the current crisis in antibiotic resistance. Prerequisite: Chemistry 234. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Fall; Chris Calderone
CHEM 330 Instrumental Chemical Analysis This course covers the basic principles of quantitative instrumental chemical analysis. Course topics include chromatography, electroanalytical chemistry, analytical spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. The background needed to understand the theory and application of these instrumental techniques will be covered. In addition, students will have the opportunity to explore current research in the field of analytical chemistry through the reading and presentation of articles from the primary literature. Prerequisite: Chemistry 224 and Chemistry 233; Concurrent registration in Chemistry 331. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Winter; Steven M Drew
CHEM 331 Instrumental Chemical Analysis Laboratory This laboratory provides students with experience in using instrumental methods for quantitative chemical analysis. Laboratory work consists of several assigned experiments that use instrumental techniques such as liquid and gas chromatography, UV spectrophotometry and fluorometry, mass spectrometry, and voltammetry. This laboratory concludes with an instrumental analysis project that is researched and designed by student groups. Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Chemistry 330; Chemistry 224 and 233. 2 credits; NE, QRE; Winter; Steven M Drew
CHEM 338 Computer-Assisted Experimentation for Chemists This laboratory introduces students to the general components that make up an instrument used for chemical analysis. These components include transducers, analog and digital electronic components, data transmission hardware, computers, and appropriate software. The specific topics to be covered are ion selective electrodes, fluorometry, analog electronics, basic data acquisition principles, serial data communication, Arduino and LabVIEW programming. Prerequisite: Chemistry 224. 2 credits; LS; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 343 Chemical Thermodynamics The major topic is chemical thermodynamics, including the First and Second Laws, the conditions for spontaneous change, thermochemistry, and chemical equilibrium. To showcase how chemists utilize energy concepts to solve problems, thermodynamics will be regularly applied to a number of real-world examples and scientific problems. Prerequisite: Chemistry 123 or 128, Mathematics 120 or 211 and six credits from Physics courses number 131 to 165. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Fall; Trish Ferrett
CHEM 344 Quantum Chemistry This course introduces quantum mechanics with an emphasis on chemical and spectroscopic applications. The focus will be on atomic and molecular quantum behavior involving electrons, rotations, and vibrations. The objective is to develop both a deeper understanding of bonding as well as an appreciation of how spectroscopy provides insight into the microscopic world of molecules. Prerequisite: Chemistry 123 or 128, Mathematics 120 or 211 and six credits from Physics 131 to 165. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Winter; Daniela L Kohen
CHEM 345 Statistical Thermodynamics Statistical mechanics is the field which bridges the gap between the modern microscopic world of quantum mechanics and the classical macroscopic world of thermodynamics. Starting with the allowed quantized energy levels for the different forms of molecular motion and then statistically averaging for a large collection of molecules, partition functions are developed which accurately predict thermodynamic properties such as free energy and entropy. Prerequisite: Chemistry 343 and 344. 2 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 348 Introduction to Computational Chemistry This class will introduce students to computational chemistry with a focus on simulations in chemistry and biology. This course will include hands-on experience in running classical molecular dynamics and quantum chemistry programs, an introduction to methods to simulate large systems, and demonstrations of the use of more sophisticated software to simulate chemical and biological processes. It will also include a survey of the current literature in this area, as well as lecture time in which the background necessary to appreciate this growing area of chemistry will be provided. Prerequisite: Chemistry 343 and 344 or consent of the instructor; Concurrent registration in Chemistry 349. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 349 Computational Chemistry Laboratory Credit for the laboratory portion of Chemistry 348. Prerequisite: Concurrent registration in Chemistry 348. 2 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 350 Chemical and Biosynthesis This seminar course considers nature's biosynthetic pathways in conjunction with how organic chemists design the chemical synthesis of complex organic molecules. Important metabolic pathways for biochemical syntheses, as well as the methodology of chemical synthesis, will form the focus of the course. Prerequisite: Chemistry 234. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 351 Inorganic Chemistry Symmetry, molecular orbital theory and ligand field theory will provide a framework to explore the bonding, magnetism and spectroscopic properties of coordination complexes. Topics in reactivity (hard and soft acids and bases), bioinorganic chemistry, reaction mechanisms, and organometallic chemistry, will also be introduced. Prerequisite: Chemistry 224 and 234. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Spring; Marion E Cass
CHEM 352 Laboratory in Advanced Inorganic Chemistry Synthesis, purification and spectroscopic characterization of transition-metal complexes with an emphasis on methods for preparing and handling air-sensitive compounds. One laboratory per week. Corequisite: Chemistry 351. Prerequisite: Concurrent or previous registration in Chemistry 351. 2 credits; QRE, NE; Spring; Marion E Cass, Matt Whited
CHEM 353 Organic Chemistry III This course explores the relationship between structure and reactivity in organic molecular systems, with an emphasis on reaction mechanisms. Topics include molecular orbital theory, stereoelectronic effects, linear free energy relationships, and kinetic isotope effects. We will use these theories to revisit and deepen our understanding of reactions from Chemistry 233 (Organic Chemistry & Lab) and 234 (Organic Chemistry II & Lab). We will then analyze additional classes of reactions, such as pericyclic, enantioselective, and organometallic transformations. Students will use the primary literature to further investigate these topics. Prerequisite: Chemistry 234; Either previous or concurrent registration in Chemistry 301, 343 or 344. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 354 Lasers and Spectroscopy Understanding the principles of lasers in conjunction with the framework provided by spectroscopy provides a powerful way to advance a deeper understanding of the molecular basis of chemical reactivity. Important experimental techniques such as Raman scattering methods and molecular beams are explored in addition to a wide range of specific laser applications. Readings are taken from both texts and literature. Prerequisite: 6 credits of physics drawn from courses 131 to 165 and one 6-credit 300-level chemistry class. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Spring; Will Hollingsworth
CHEM 355 Lasers and Spectroscopy Laboratory This project-based lab uses both continuous-wave and pulsed lasers to explore not only the basic principles of laser operation but also spectroscopic applications and excited-state phenomena using techniques such as laser-induced fluorescence and Raman scattering. Corequisite: Chemistry 354. 2 credits; QRE, LS; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 358 Organometallic Chemistry This course covers the bonding and reactivity of organometallic complexes in the context of their applications to industrial catalysis, the synthesis of complex organic molecules, and energy science. We will use simple yet powerful tools such as the eighteen-electron rule and isoelectronic arguments to rationalize and predict observed reactivity, and current literature will be extensively utilized. Prerequisite: Chemistry 234. 6 credits; NE; Winter; Matt Whited
CHEM 359 Molecular Orbital Theory This course will focus on the construction and understanding of molecular orbital (MO) diagrams using symmetry and energy arguments. Conceptual constructs will be contrasted to computational output to support theoretical tenets. We will begin with the construction of the MO diagrams of small molecules and proceed to larger molecules culminating in dimers and asymmetric molecules using the Hoffmann Fragment Approach. Prerequisite: Chemistry 351 or instructor permission. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 362 Chemistry at the Nanoscale This discussion-based seminar involves critical examination of research literature authored by prominent investigators in the interdisciplinary field of nanochemistry. Learning will draw upon the multiple disciplines of chemistry (physical, analytical, inorganic, and organic), physics, and biology. Includes a focus on the integrative themes of design, size, shape, surface, self-assembly, and defects. Novel and emerging applications in technology, biology, and medicine will be explored. Prerequisite: Chemistry 343 or 344 and one 300-level Chemistry course. Any of these courses can be taken concurrently. 6 credits; NE; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 363 Biophysical Chemistry This course examines the chemical and physical underpinnings of biology at the molecular level. Principles of thermodynamics will be applied to problems in biochemistry, including protein structure, folding, and dynamics, ligand binding, membrane transport, and metabolism. Biophysical methods for the characterization of the structure and function of macromolecules will also be discussed. Prerequisite: Mathematics 120 (121), Chemistry 234, and either Biology 126 or Chemistry 320, or by instructor permission. 6 credits; NE, QRE; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 364 Biophysical Chemistry Lab This lab course introduces biophysical techniques, including crystallography, magnetic resonance, and various fluorescence spectroscopy methods, used to study the structure, dynamics, and function of biological macromolecules. Prerequisite: Mathematics 120 (121), Chemistry 234 and either Biology 126 or Chemistry 320, or instructor permission; Concurrent registration in Chemistry 363. 2 credits; QRE; Not offered 2016-17
CHEM 394 Student-Faculty Research Projects related to faculty research programs, supervised by faculty in all areas of chemistry. Activities include: original inquiry, laboratory and/or theoretical work, literature reading, formal writing related to research results, and preparing talks or posters for research conferences. Weekly meetings with a faculty advisor and/or research group are expected. Students conducting research that is not directly tied to ongoing faculty research programs should enroll in Chemistry 391/392. Prerequisite: Instructor Permission. 1-6 credit; S/CR/NC; NE, INT; Fall, Winter, Spring; Deborah S Gross, Buck L Taylor, Chris Calderone, Steven M Drew, Matt Whited, David G Alberg, Joe Chihade, Daniela L Kohen
CHEM 395 Research Experience Seminar in Chemistry This seminar course is intended for students who have completed a summer research project or internship in the chemical sciences. The intent of the course is to provide students with the opportunity to discuss their research experience, learn from the experiences of other members of the class, read relevant primary literature, and prepare a poster for a student research symposium. 3 credits; S/CR/NC; NE, QRE; Fall; Sarah Deel
CHEM 400 Integrative Exercise Three alternatives exist for the department comprehensive exercise. Most students elect to join a discussion group that studies the research of a distinguished chemist or particular research problem in depth. Other students elect to write a long paper based on research in the primary literature, or write a paper expanding on their own research investigations. Most of the work for Chemistry 400 is expected to be accomplished during winter term. Students should enroll for five credits of Chemistry 400 during the winter, receive a "CI" at the end of that term, and then enroll for one credit during the spring, with the final evaluation and grade being awarded during spring term. 1 credit; S/NC; Fall, Winter, Spring; Chris Calderone, Steven M Drew, Matt Whited, Joe Chihade, Deborah S Gross