Teaching

CHEM 3890 — Honors Physical Chemistry I
Fall 2026. 4 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisites: CHEM 2080; PHYS 2208; MATH 1920 or MATH 2220 or MATH 2310; or permission of instructor.

Course Description: CHEM 3890-CHEM 3900 is a year-long sequence covering key topics in physical chemistry. CHEM 3890 introduces the use of mathematics and physics to investigate chemical systems. The fundamental principles of quantum mechanics are introduced and applied to understanding the structure and spectra of atoms and molecules. Specific topics include exact and approximate solutions to the Schrodinger equation, angular momentum, bonding and molecules, and spectroscopy. CHEM 3900 follows with an introduction to the behavior of ensembles of quantum particles (statistical mechanics), the laws of thermodynamics, and kinetic theory.

Course Syllabus: CHEM 3890 Fall 26.

Contact Information: If you have any questions, please send an e-mail to: distasio@cornell.edu.

The DiStasio Research Group is currently accepting Graduate and Undergraduate students.

Prospective Graduate students will need to apply to the Graduate Program in Chemistry and Chemical Biology at Cornell University. Current Cornell Graduate and Undergraduate students interested in joining the DRG are encouraged to attend the weekly DRG meetings.