Physical chemistry

Physical Chemistry is the combined science of physics, chemistry, thermodynamics, and quantum mechanics which functions to provide molecular-level interpretations of observed macroscopic phenomena. Typically, changes in temperature, pressure, volume, heat, and work of systems in the solid, liquid, and or gas phase are correlated to microscopic atomic and molecular interactions. Most cite Willard Gibbs as the founder of physical chemistry as stemming from his 1876 paper: ?On the Equilibrium of Heterogeneous Substances?, wherein such cornerstones as free energy, chemical potential, and phase rule were developed.

Related Topics:
Physics - Chemistry - Thermodynamics - Quantum mechanics - Systems - Willard Gibbs - Free energy - Chemical potential - Phase rule

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Modern physical chemistry is firmly grounded upon physics. Important areas of study include chemical thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, quantum chemistry, statistical mechanics, electrochemistry, surface and solid state chemistry, and spectroscopy. Physical chemistry is also fundamental to modern materials science.

Related Topics:
Chemical thermodynamics - Chemical kinetics - Quantum chemistry - Statistical mechanics - Electrochemistry - Surface - Solid state chemistry - Spectroscopy - Materials science

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~