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Mathematics for Physics

7 Physical Chemistry

Physical chemistry is the phenomenon of microscopic molecular behavior and macroscopic thermodynamic properties.

A molecule is, fundamentally, a microscopic entity composed of electrons and nuclei whose motions are governed by the laws of quantum mechanics.

Physical chemistry is also fundamentally related to classical thermodynamics because macroscopic properties are independent of which molecules compose the system, which path connects the thermodynamic states, and which reference frame is used.

7.2 References

  1. Levine, I. N. Physical Chemistry. — thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, kinetics, and molecular electronic structure.
  2. Atkins, P., de Paula, J., & Keeler, J. Atkins’ Physical Chemistry. — equilibrium, spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and surfaces.
  3. McQuarrie, D. A., & Simon, J. D. Physical Chemistry: A Molecular Approach. — molecules as electrons and nuclei, and the mathematical methods of the subject.