Laboratory Experiments

The objective of this course is to give students ``hands-on'' laboratory experience in physical chemistry. There will be 8 experimental laboratories. Students will do experiments in ``teams''. Laboratory written reports can either be written by the ``team'' or individually. The eight experiments will include:

 

• EXP1 - Error and Data Analysis - Fitting and Error Methods (1 week).
• EXP2 - Liquid-Vapor Equilibrium - Thermodynamics (1 week).
• EXP3 - Chemical Kinetics - Kinetic Theory (1 week).
• EXP4 - Rotational-Vibrational Transitions and Computation - Quantum Analysis (2 week).
• EXP5 - Dipole Moment and Dielectric Relaxation - Electrical Effects (1 week).
• EXP6 - 1D and 2D Correlation NMR - Angular Momentum and NMR Assignment (2 weeks).
• EXP7 - Vibrational Spectroscopy - Group Theory, Quantum Mechanics (1 weeks).
• EXP8 - Thermal Lensing - Laser Spectroscopy, Thermodynamics (1 week).

 

Laboratory Preparation

Although most of the experiments given in this manual can be performed by a single person, it is assumed that a pair of students will work together as a team. Before the students arrive in the laboratory to perform a given experiment, it is essential that the experiment be studied carefully by each team. Experimental work in physical chemistry requires many complex and expensive apparatuses. Each team should accept complete responsibility for its equipment and should check it over carefully before starting an experiment.

At the start of every laboratory a short recitation will be held. This will allow the professor and/or TA to discuss any topics of concern or problem. It will also allow students to ask any questions about a particular lab or piece of equipment.

Experimental work can be subject to many kinds of hazards. Every student should be alert to possible safety problems and are responsible for having safety glasses and a lab coat. Any further safety equipment needed will be provided by the instructor (e.g. laser safety glasses).

Recording Experimental Data

A laboratory notebook is the essential link between the laboratory and the written reports and communications of projects, experiments, and results. A laboratory notebook is the source book for the production of reports and publications but also is a permanent record which may be consulted even after a great many years. It is standard practice in experimental research to record everything relevant (data, calculations, notes, comments, chemical and equipment manufacture, etc.) directly in a bound notebook with numbered pages using permanent ink pens. It is required that you get your laboratory notebook signed and dated by the TA or professor after each laboratory. This helps verify the validity of data and when it was recorded.