Overall objectives:

1 - OBJECTIVES: Study of energy transfer and its influence on physical and chemical phenomena.
2 - KNOWLEDGE: Fundamental principles of classical thermodynamics and the mathematical framework needed for its application to real phenomena; thermochemistry and chemical equilibrium intermolecular forces and their relation with thermodynamic properties; properties of pure substances and simple mixtures.
3 - SKILLS: Using fundamental theories for the interpretation of physical and chemical systems; to formulate new hypotheses and propose methodologies and procedures for their verification; use physical chemistry principles to make critical interpretations about the evolution of chemical and biochemical systems.
4 - COMPETENCE: To manage complex activities, taking responsibility for decision making under situations of unpredictable nature; Advanced skills that demonstrate the mastery and innovation needed for the resolution of complex and unpredictable problems in physical chemistry.

Syllabus:

1 - Laws of Thermodynamics: 1.1 Thermal equilibrium and the "Zeroth Law"; 1.2 The first law of Thermodynamics; 1.3 The second law of Thermodynamics: Entropy; 1.4 The chemical potential; 1.5 The third law of Thermodynamics.
2 - Thermochemistry: 2.1 The standard state; 2.2 Heat of reaction; 2.3 Thermochemical cycles; 2.4 Standard entropy of reaction and Gibbs energy of reaction; 2.5 The effect of temperature on standard reaction properties.
3 - Properties of pure substances: 3.1 Molecular interactions; 3.2 The Perfect Gas model; 3.3 Real gases; 3.4 Phase transitions: pvT diagram.
4 - Properties of mixtures: 4.1 The thermodynamics of mixing; 4.2 Gas mixtures; 4.3 Condensed phase mixtures.
5 - Chemical equilibrium: 5.1 Chemical equilibrium of mixtures of gases and liquids; 5.2 Effect of temperature and pressure on the chemical equilibrium; 5.3 Equilibrium electrochemistry.
6 - Introduction to spectroscopy: 6.1 The quantum nature of matter; 6.2 Interaction of matter and radiation; 6.3 Fundamentals of spectroscopy.

Literature/Sources:

P.W. Atkins, J. de Paula , Physical Chemistry for the Life Sciences , Oxford University Press
E. G. Azevedo , 2011 , Termodinâmica Aplicada , Escolar Editora
Marc R. Roussel , 2012 , A Life Scientist's Guide to Physical Chemistry , Cambridge University Press
Urs von Stockar , 2013 , Biothermodynamics , EPFL Press

Assesssment methods and criteria:

Classification Type: Quantitativa (0-20)

Evaluation Methodology:
The curricular unit includes 32 hours of theoretical classes and 32 hours of theoretical-practical (TP) classes. During the theoretical classes emphasis is given to transmission of knowledge while students' participation is stimulated and welcomed. The TP classes are focused on the acquisition of skills, through extensive exercise and problem solving. The evaluation of the learning outcomes is done through realization of 5 mini-tests, (every 3 weeks), assessed on a scale from 0 to 20 (no minimum score required) and a weight of 20% on the final score. All mini-tests are mandatory and subject to appeal and improvement. Each mini-test is focused on the syllabus of the previous 3 weeks and the assessment criteria are directed to the acquisition of knowledge, skills and competences.