Structures of organic compounds, reaction mechanisms, and stereochemistry of organic reactions are emphasized. The student will gain a deeper understanding of these topics and insight into the experimental foundation of abstract concepts. Principles of Polymer Chemistry - Topics include polymer solutions, molecular weight measurement, analysis and testing, mechanical properties, polymer structure and physical properties, polymerization methods, and polymer processing. Students will acquire hands-on experience in the operation and use of several instruments commonly employed in chemical analysis. Students who successfully complete this course will have developed the critical thinking and laboratory skills necessary to apply various instrumentation to the solution of problems in chemical analysis.
Laboratory meets in one four-hour session.
CHEM 4240 and 4240LB must be taken concurrently. Students who successfully complete this course will develop the skills for the synthesis of organic and inorganic compounds using modern techniques. Students who do not pass on the first sitting for the comprehensives are given two more opportunities to pass in the spring of the senior year.