The main goal of graduate studies in physical chemistry is to understand the chemical behavior of unique physical properties of matter. This is done through experimental and theoretical studies using various techniques. These techniques are used to study the synthesis of amino acids, coupling of organic compounds, chemical bonding, and dissolving and joining of compounds.
Studying physical properties of elements is necessary for the development of a complete chemical structure. Elements can be studied at the molecular or atomic level. Several elements can be combined in many ways to solve a problem. Chemical elements display common chemical reactions with one another, even though their individual physical properties are quite different. An element’s single physical property, if known, is usually referred to when computing its chemical formula.
A wide variety of physical properties of elements can be studied during graduate studies. One of these properties is electromagnetic bonding, which is the interaction of electrically charged atomic molecules with one another. There exists a great deal of research in this area, which links the occurrence of electromagnetic bonding to the development of various types of compounds. Another physical property that is commonly studied is that of the Planck’s Constant, which refers to the uncertainty in measuring time and the speed of light. This constant is an excellent model for many physical laws and also for the instability of very heavy particles.
The study of chemical properties of compounds involves study of the structures and bonding between them. One such structure is the electron. It plays a central role in all chemical reactions and is often the basis for chemical bonding. The bonding of two different kinds of carbon compounds, namely, Carbon elastomers and Carbon tri-esters, to form polysaccharides is also studied. In this case, one method is used to attach the electrons to one side of a carbon compound while leaving the other unpaired.
Students also learn about physical properties through extensive lab work and experimental work. Chemical bonds between dissimilar substances may be predicted by studying the reaction of several molecules on their base and electrophoresis probes. The study of physical properties of solutes is called conduction. In this field, the student is taught how various solutes are attracted or repulsed by certain electrically charged atoms or ions.
The study of physical chemistry and its properties is also linked to other branches of science and engineering. Many mechanical problems arise in manufacturing plants and power stations, requiring the use of mechanical equations. To solve problems concerning heat transfer, dynamic friction and equilibrium, the study of heat transfer is essential. Some physical processes involved in manufacturing can be explained only through physical laws. Such processes as adiabatic reactions and curative heat treatment are examples.
A complete course in physical chemistry has many interesting topics such as the nuclear fission and fusion of atoms, macroscopy, kinematics, solid state chemistry, lattices, optical microscopy, chemical bonding, the chemical potential, the kinetic energy of molecules and the introduction to physical substances. After mastering these broad topics, students can pursue graduate studies in areas such as industrial and biochemical engineering. A student interested in a career in this field can enroll in a graduate program in applied science in either a major field or an interdisciplinary program in pure materials or physics.
