What is Physical Chemistry?
Physical chemistry is the study of how matter behaves on a molecular and atomic level and how chemical reactions occur. Based on their analyses, physical chemists may develop new theories, such as how complex structures are formed. Physical chemists often work closely with materials scientists to research and develop potential uses for new materials.
What do Physical Chemists do?
Physical chemists are focused on understanding the physical
properties of atoms and molecules, the way chemical reactions work, and
what these properties reveal. Their work involves analyzing materials,
developing methods to test and characterize the properties of materials,
developing theories about these properties, and discovering the
potential use of the materials. Using sophisticated instrumentation and
equipment has always been an important aspect of physical chemistry.
Most physical chemistry labs are full of analytical instruments, which
can include lasers, mass spectrometers, nuclear magnetic resonance, and
electron microscopes.Physical chemists’ discoveries are based on understanding chemical
properties and describing their behavior using theories of physics and
mathematical computations. Physical chemists predict properties and
reactions of chemicals, then test and refine those predications. They
use mathematical analysis and statistics on huge datasets, sometimes
with millions of data points, to reveal hidden information about
compounds, materials, and processes. They may also conduct simulations,
developing mathematical equations that predict how compounds will react
over time.
Recently, more and more physical chemists have found homes in the
emerging fields of materials science and molecular modeling where their
skills in analyzing and predicting the behavior of physical properties
have exciting new applications. By combining the mathematical rigidity
of physical chemistry with the practicality of new materials and new
applications, the field of physical chemistry is expanding in new and
exciting ways.
Where is Physical Chemistry used?
Physical chemists work in a variety of different areas, but their common goal is to discover, test, and understand the fundamental physical characteristics of a material—be it solid, liquid, or gas. Precision and attention to detail make their work somewhat similar to analytical chemistry, though physical chemists also stress the importance of applying knowledge of math and physics to develop a thorough understanding of the material. Physical chemists generally have a strong curiosity about how things work at the atomic level and enjoy working with lab instrumentation and machines. Many are drawn to the fact that physical chemistry processes are similar to those of engineering, and many chemists enjoy using their knowledge and love of chemistry to make discoveries. A physical chemistry lab is characterized by the large machines and sophisticated instrumentation these scientists use to test and analyze materials. Many who work in the lab say their time is divided between working at the bench and working at their desks doing calculations and reviewing data. Physical chemists who go into management also spend time supervising other scientists, reviewing department needs and goals, and meeting with business managers in their companies.
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