Quantum, Statistical, and Computational Foundations of Chemistry

Harvard Summer School

CHEM S-10A

Section 1

CRN 35925

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An introduction to the fundamental theories of quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics and their role in governing the behavior of matter. The course begins with the quantum behavior of a single electron and develops the elements of the periodic table, the nature of the chemical bond, the bulk electronic and thermal properties of materials, and the thermodynamics of chemical reactions. Applications include semiconductor electronics, solar energy conversion, medical imaging, and the stability and dynamism of living systems. MATLAB, a very powerful tool for scientific computing, will be introduced and used extensively in computational labs for numerical simulation and visualization.

Instructor Info

Lu Wang, PhD

Senior Preceptor in Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University


Meeting Info

MW 8:30am - 11:30am (6/23 - 8/8)

Participation Option: Online Synchronous

Deadlines

Last day to register: June 17, 2025

Additional Time Commitments

Required synchronous sections Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30-10 am. Required synchronous labs Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:15-11:30 am. Additional sections and lab times may be added if enrollment permits.

Prerequisites

High school-level algebra and interest in mathematics required. Mathematical tools in calculus and linear algebra are introduced in the course: one semester of calculus and familiarity with linear algebra would be helpful, but not necessary. One semester of introductory physics and one semester of introductory chemistry required. No coding experience is required.

Notes

This course meets via web conference. Students must attend and participate at the scheduled meeting time. Open to admitted Secondary School Program students by petition. Harvard College students: This course is eligible for degree credit, but see important policy information.

All Sections of this Course

CRN Section # Participation Option(s) Instructor Section Status Meets Term Dates
35925 1 Online Synchronous Lu Wang Open MW 8:30am - 11:30am
Jun 23 to Aug 8