CATALOG DATA:
An introduction to quantum mechanics, internal structure, and quantum energy states of monatomic and diatomic gases. Application to chemical reactions, dissociating gases, and ionized gases. High temperature properties of air.

TEXTBOOK:
Vincenti and Kruger, Physical Gas Dynamics, Krieger Publishing Co., Malabar Florida, 1967.

GOALS:
The objectives of the course are to develop the students ability to: a. Understand the microscopic basis for common fluid-mechanic properties; b. Be able to derive common thermodynamic properties using Kinetic Theory; c. Understand the basis for Quantum Mechanics and be able to use it to compute the probability functions for particle in a box, rigid rotator and harmonic oscillator; d. Understand that both Quantum Mechanics and Kinetic Theory lead to the same conclusions and the principle of Complimentarity.

Topics:

• Kinetic theory of gases: Kinetic basis for pressure and temperature, collision theory, kinetic approach to modeling transport.
• Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution.
• Introduction to quantum mechanics: Particle in a box, harmonic oscillator, rigid rotator.
• Energy states of monatomic and diatomic gases.
• Statistical thermodynamics: Entropy (Boltzmann) and other properties, Boltzmann distribution.
• Rate theory of chemical reactions.
• Law of mass action.

ABET category content as estimated by faculty member who prepared the course description:
Engineering Science: 3.0 credits or 100%
Engineering Design: 0 credits

Prepared by: Professor Eric Jumper
Last Update: April 4, 2005

 

Direct comments, questions, and corrections to amedept@nd.edu