Jeremy Richardson: Catalogue data in Spring Semester 2024

Name Prof. Dr. Jeremy Richardson
FieldTheoretical Molecular Quantum Dynamics
Address
Inst. Mol. Phys. Wiss.
ETH Zürich, HCI D 267.3
Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 1-5/10
8093 Zürich
SWITZERLAND
Telephone+41 44 633 46 36
E-mailrjeremy@ethz.ch
URLhttp://www.richardson.ethz.ch
DepartmentChemistry and Applied Biosciences
RelationshipAssociate Professor

NumberTitleECTSHoursLecturers
529-0060-00LMPS Colloquium0 credits3KG. Jeschke, A. Barnes, M. Ernst, P. H. Hünenberger, F. Merkt, M. Reiher, J. Richardson, R. Riek, S. Riniker, T. Schmidt
AbstractSeminar series covering current developments in Molecular Physical Science
Learning objectiveDiscussing current developments in Molecular Physical Science
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesfostered
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesfostered
Problem-solvingfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Personal CompetenciesCritical Thinkingfostered
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
529-0442-00LAdvanced Kinetics Information 6 credits3GJ. Richardson
AbstractThis lecture covers the theoretical and conceptual foundations of quantum dynamics in molecular systems. Particular attention is taken to derive and compare quantum and classical approximations which can be used to simulate the dynamics of molecular systems and the reaction rate constant used in chemical kinetics.
Learning objectiveThe theory of quantum dynamics is derived from the time-dependent Schrödinger equation. This is illustrated with molecular examples including tunnelling, recurrences, nonadiabatic crossings. We consider thermal distributions, correlation functions, interaction with light and nonadiabatic effects. Quantum scattering theory is introduced and applied to discuss molecular collisions. The dynamics of systems with a very large number of quantum states are discussed to understand the transition from microscopic to macroscopic dynamics. A rigorous rate theory is obtained both from a quantum-mechanical picture as well as within the classical approximation. The approximations leading to conventional transition-state theory for polyatomic reactions are discussed. In this way, relaxation and irreversibility will be explained which are at the foundation of statistical mechanics.

By the end of the course, the student will have learned many ways to simplify the complex problem posed by quantum dynamics. They will understand when and why certain approximations are valid in different situations and will use this to make quantitative and qualitative predictions about how different molecular systems behave.
Lecture notesWill be available online.
LiteratureD. J. Tannor, Introduction to Quantum Mechanics: A Time-Dependent Perspective
R. D. Levine, Molecular Reaction Dynamics
S. Mukamel, Principles of Nonlinear Optical Spectroscopy
Prerequisites / Notice529-0422-00L Physical Chemistry II: Chemical Reaction Dynamics
529-0479-00LTheoretical Chemistry, Molecular Spectroscopy and Dynamics1 credit2SF. Merkt, J. Richardson, R. Signorell, H. J. Wörner
AbstractSeminar on theoretical chemistry, molecular spectroscopy and dynamics (research seminar)
Learning objectiveSeminar on theoretical chemistry, molecular spectroscopy and dynamics (research seminar)
529-0809-00LTheoretical Chemistry Seminar0 credits2SM. Reiher, J. Richardson
AbstractSeminar on recent developments in Theoretical Chemistry presented by guest speakers.
Learning objectiveTraining of students and co-workers in latest topics in theoretical chemistry.
ContentContents depends on current state of research and interests of invited speakers.
Will be announced on http://www.reiher.ethz.ch/courses-and-seminars/theoretical-chemistry.html
Prerequisites / NoticeBasic quantum mechanics and/or quantum chemistry courses are helpful.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesfostered
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesfostered
Decision-makingfostered
Problem-solvingfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered