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University of Manchester

Introduction to Physical Chemistry

Chemical reactions underpin the production of pretty much everything in our modern world. But, what is the driving force behind reactions? Why do some reactions occur over geological time scales whilst others are so fast that we need femtosecond-pulsed lasers to study them? Ultimately, what is going on at the atomic level? Discover the answers to such fundamental questions and more on this course in introductory physical chemistry. The course covers the key concepts of three of the principal topics in first-year undergraduate physical chemistry: thermodynamics, kinetics and quantum mechanics. These three topics cover whether or not reactions occur, how fast they go and what is actually going on at the sub-atomic scale.

Status: Physical Science
Status: Laboratory Experience
Course18 hours

Featured reviews

JS

5.0Reviewed May 9, 2020

Excellent course content and really very useful in understanding the modern applications of nanotechnology.

SB

5.0Reviewed Apr 29, 2020

Amazing course. Thanks to University of Manchester and Coursera for this course. I've learnt a lot of important things from here. :)

S

5.0Reviewed Oct 6, 2022

T​he important note according to course contents is having background knowledgment is vitally advice .good luck

RP

5.0Reviewed Jul 26, 2021

A brilliant, fascinating and accessible course. Highly recommended for anyone interested in chemistry and/or physics.

MR

5.0Reviewed Aug 24, 2022

T​his course is perfect to improve your concepts of Physical Chemistry. All the teachers well explained it.

AR

5.0Reviewed Jul 11, 2020

I found the course really useful , especially the practical sections at the end of every theoretical explanations.

MM

5.0Reviewed Oct 21, 2020

The course is very good and easy to understand for any science students who likes to learn physical chemistry

LL

5.0Reviewed Nov 16, 2016

The information in this course is very useful. Help me to understand one of the part of physical chemistry. And the lectures are very clearly So thank Professors for the course!!

CS

5.0Reviewed Jul 1, 2017

Great course! It serves as a good bridge between A-levels and an undergraduate degree in chemistry.

MM

5.0Reviewed Mar 3, 2019

This was an unbelievabable lecture.i have learn first time the schrodinger wave equation.fantastic lecture i have ever seen.many many thanks to my dear prof.

EE

5.0Reviewed Jul 24, 2016

Excelente curso que enseña las bases de la química desde un punto de vista físico, lo recomiendo fervientemente.

MA

5.0Reviewed Aug 15, 2025

Amazing and tough course have learn more then expectation and very excited by completing this course

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