Learning outcomes

Recognise and understand chemical phenomena with a relativistic origin.

Goals

Describe and explain chemical phenomena with a relativistic origin. Make the link with EPR spectroscopy and with many phenomena having an impact on the properties and signatures of molecules and solids.

Content

I.A. Introduction to the theory of special relativity I.A.1. Principles of classical relativity I.A.2. Michelson-Morley experiment I.A.3. The contraction of space I.A.4. Time dilation I.A.5. The principle of simultaneity I.A.6. The Lorentz transformation I.B. Relativistic dynamics I.B.1. Equivalence between mass and energy I.B.2. Speed transformation I.B.3. Relativistic mass I.B.4. Relativistic energy II.A. Dirac equation II.A.1. search for a relativistic equation II.A.2. The Dirac equation II.A.3. kinetically balanced basic functions II.A.4. The hydrogen atom and the Slater-based hydrogens II.B. Consequences II.B.1. The spin II.B.2. The EPR II.B.3. Spin-orbit coupling

Assessment method

The assessment consists of writing a summary of an article (highlighting links to the course) and presenting it to the teacher in 15-30 minutes.

Sources, references and any support material

K.G. Dyall and K. Faegri, Jr, Introduction to Relativistic Quantum Chemistry, (Oxford University Press, Oxford), (2007). E. Biémont, Atomic Spectroscopy - instrumentation and atomic structures, (De Boeck, Brussels, 2006). F. Gerson and W. Huber, Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy of Organic Radicals, (Wiley-VCH, Weinheim, 2003) H. Friedrich, Theoretical atomic physics, (Springer, Berlin, 1998). L. Pisani et al, J. Chem. Educ. 70, 894 (1993)

Language of instruction

Français