Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

To introduce the students to supramolecular chemistry with focus on the physical chemistry of molecular interactions.

The course includes lectures and theoretical assignments, including

• The basic concepts of supramolecular chemistry
• Intermolecular forces and equilibrium considerations
• Thermodynamics and solvent effects
• Cation-and anion-specific ligands
• The supramolecular chemistry of biological systems
• The self-organization of molecules
• Self-assembly of macromolecules and polymers
• Assessment of experimental and computational modelling data for molecular interactions.

Learning objectives

Knowledge

Students who have passed the module should be able to

• explain the principles of design of artificial ligands
• relate similarities and differences of intra- and intermolecular forces of large molecules and aggregates
• describe the thermodynamics of molecular interactions and account for the importance of solvents and additives on the strength of molecular interactions

Skills

• apply theories and methods for analysis of molecular interactions
• apply experimental and computational models in the study of molecular interactions

Competences

• predict the molecular interactions of macromolecules and their implications on macroscopic behaviour

Type of instruction

The program is based on a combination of academic, problem-oriented and interdisciplinary approaches and organized based on the following work and evaluation methods that combine skills and reflection:

• Lectures
• Workshop exercises (individually and in groups) 
• Teacher feedback

Extent and expected workload

150 timer

Exam

Exams