Skip to main content
CHM414Sciences2 Unitsintermediate

Photochemistry And Pericyclic Reactions

This course introduces students to photochemistry and pericyclic reactions, covering fundamental principles and photochemical transformations. It explores the interaction of light with molecules, excited-state reactions, and concerted reactions involving cyclic electron flow. The course emphasizes mechanisms, stereochemical outcomes, and analysis techniques, including frontier molecular orbital theory and orbital correlation diagrams. It aims to provide a solid foundation for understanding photochemical processes and pericyclic reactions.

Transform this course into personalized study materials with AI

150h
Study Time
13
Weeks
12h
Per Week
intermediate
Math Level
Course Keywords
PhotochemistryPericyclic ReactionsOrbital SymmetryElectrocyclic ReactionsCycloaddition

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📊
Math Level
Moderate Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Electromagnetic Spectrum

2

Photochemistry Principles

3

Excited State Chemistry

4

Selection Rules

5

Laser Technology

6

Pericyclic Reaction Mechanisms

7

Cycloaddition Reactions

8

Electrocyclic Reactions

9

Sigmatropic Rearrangements

Total Topics9 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

CHM301

CHM302

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

Self Assessment Exercises

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Tutor-Marked Assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Final Examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Organic Chemist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Materials Scientist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Photochemist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Spectroscopist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Research Scientist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

PharmaceuticalsMaterials ScienceEnvironmental ScienceRenewable EnergyChemical Manufacturing

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module One

2h

Unit 1: The Electromagnetic Spectrum

2 study hours
  • Read the introduction to electromagnetic spectrum.
  • Understand the properties of electromagnetic waves.
  • Perform calculations using wavelength, frequency, and energy.
Week
2

Module One

2h

Unit 2: Introduction to Photochemistry

2 study hours
  • Differentiate between thermal and photochemical reactions.
  • Study the laws of photochemistry.
  • Explore the applications of photochemistry in various fields.
Week
3

Module One

2h

Unit 3: Light Absorption and Fate of the Excited State

2 study hours
  • Understand the process of light absorption and the formation of excited states.
  • Study the Franck-Condon Principle.
  • Identify and describe important photophysical processes.
Week
4

Module One

2h

Unit 4: Selection Rules and Photophysical Parameters

2 study hours
  • Learn the selection rules governing photochemical transitions.
  • Calculate quantum yields for photochemical processes.
  • Understand the concept of excited state lifetime and rate constants.
Week
5

Module One

2h

Unit 5: Lasers

2 study hours
  • Study the characteristics of laser radiation.
  • Understand the processes of emission and absorption of light.
  • Explore the applications of lasers in various fields.
Week
6

Module One

2h

Unit 6: Photochemical Reactions

2 study hours
  • Differentiate photochemical reactions from thermal reactions.
  • Study the factors determining the outcome of photochemical reactions.
  • Classify and understand different types of photoreactions.
Week
7

MODULE TWO

2h

Unit 1: Mechanism of Pericyclic Reactions and Associated Terminologies

2 study hours
  • Define pericyclic reactions and understand their mechanisms.
  • Study the characteristics of pericyclic reactions.
  • Learn stereochemical notations and terminologies associated with pericyclic reactions.
Week
8

MODULE TWO

2h

Unit 2: Types of Pericyclic Reactions

2 study hours
  • Classify and compare different types of pericyclic reactions.
  • Study cycloaddition, cheletropic, electrocyclic, and sigmatropic reactions.
  • Understand group transfer and dyotropic rearrangements.
Week
9

MODULE TWO

3h

Unit 3: Analysis of Pericyclic Reactions

3 study hours
  • Apply orbital correlation diagrams to analyze pericyclic reactions.
  • Use frontier molecular orbital theory to analyze electrocyclic reactions.
  • Learn the Woodward-Hoffmann rules for predicting pericyclic reaction outcomes.
Week
10

Module One

3h

Module One Review

3 study hours
  • Review Module One units.
  • Solve additional exercises on photochemistry.
  • Prepare for tutor-marked assignments.
Week
11

MODULE TWO

3h

Module Two Review

3 study hours
  • Review Module Two units.
  • Solve additional exercises on pericyclic reactions.
  • Prepare for tutor-marked assignments.
Week
12

Assignments

4h

TMA Preparation

4 study hours
  • Work on tutor-marked assignments.
  • Consult textbooks and online resources for further understanding.
  • Attend tutorial sessions for clarification.
Week
13

Final Revision

4h

Final Revision

4 study hours
  • Complete and submit tutor-marked assignments.
  • Review all course materials in preparation for the final examination.
  • Focus on key concepts and objectives from each unit.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Create concept maps linking photochemical principles to reaction mechanisms.

2

Practice drawing orbital correlation diagrams for different pericyclic reactions.

3

Review selection rules and apply them to predict reaction outcomes.

4

Solve numerical problems related to quantum yields and excited state lifetimes.

5

Focus on understanding the differences between thermal and photochemical processes.

6

Study the Woodward-Hoffmann rules and their application to electrocyclic reactions.

7

Create flashcards for key terms and definitions in photochemistry and pericyclic reactions.

8

Review all TMAs and self-assessment exercises to identify areas needing further study.

Related Courses

Other courses in Sciences that complement your learning