Materials are everywhere, from the copper alloy first made in the Bronze Age to the glass in a phone screen or the polymers used in clothing, medical devices, and household items. But how do we use chemistry to understand and develop new materials? Throughout this course, we will explore the relationship between a material’s structure and its properties, as well as how both of these important aspects can be measured, designed, and tuned. Topics include organic polymers and plastics, porous materials, glasses and amorphous solids, alloys, and magnetic materials. We will read and discuss the primary literature, engage with popular depictions of materials, and propose experiments to advance the field. This course complements rather than overlaps with CHEM305/PHYS 331; students are welcome to take both courses to further their study of materials.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 12

Prerequisites: (CHEM 205 or CHEM 120) and CHEM 211.

Distribution Requirements: NPS - Natural and Physical Sciences

Typical Periods Offered: Every three years

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Spring