Search result: Catalogue data in Spring Semester 2021

Interdisciplinary Sciences Bachelor Information
Physical-Chemical Direction
2. Semester (Physical-Chemical Direction)
Compulsory Subjects First Year Examinations
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
401-1262-07LAnalysis II Information O10 credits6V + 3UG. Felder
AbstractIntroduction to differential and integral calculus in several real variables, vector calculus: differential, partial derivative, implicit functions, inverse function theorem, minima with constraints; Riemann integral, vector fields, differential forms, path integrals, surface integrals, divergence theorem, Stokes' theorem.
Objective
ContentCalculus in several variables; curves and surfaces in R^n; extrema with constraints; integration in n dimensions; vector calculus.
LiteratureH. Amann, J. Escher: Analysis II
Link

J. Appell: Analysis in Beispielen und Gegenbeispielen
Link

R. Courant: Vorlesungen über Differential- und Integralrechnung
Link

O. Forster: Analysis 2
Link

H. Heuser: Lehrbuch der Analysis
Link

K. Königsberger: Analysis 2
Link

W. Walter: Analysis 2
Link

V. Zorich: Mathematical Analysis II (englisch)
Link
401-1152-02LLinear Algebra II Information Restricted registration - show details O7 credits4V + 2UM. Akka Ginosar
AbstractEigenvalues and eigenvectors, Jordan normal form, bilinear forms, euclidean and unitary vector spaces, selected applications.
ObjectiveBasic knowledge of the fundamentals of linear algebra.
LiteratureSiehe Lineare Algebra I
Prerequisites / NoticeLinear Algebra I
402-1782-00LPhysics IIO7 credits4V + 2UR. Wallny
AbstractIntroduction to theory of waves, electricity and magnetism. This is the continuation of Physics I which introduced the fundamentals of mechanics.
Objectivebasic knowledge of mechanics and electricity and magnetism as well as the capability to solve physics problems related to these subjects.
529-0012-01LPhysical Chemistry I: ThermodynamicsO4 credits3V + 1UA. Barnes
AbstractFoundations of chemical thermodynamics: Entropy, chemical thermodynamics, laws of thermodynamics, partition functions, chemical reactions, reaction free energies, equilibrium conditions, chemical potential, standard states, ideal and real systems and gases, phase equilibria, colligative properties, with applications to current research at the ETHZ.
ObjectiveUnderstanding of entropy and thermodynamic principles.
ContentThe first, second and third law of thermodynamics: empirical temperature and thermodynamic temperature scale, internal energy, entropy, thermal equilibrium. Models and standard states: ideal gases, ideal solutions and mixtures, real gases, real solutions and mixtures, activity, tables of standard thermodynamic quantities. Reaction thermodynamics: the chemical potential, reaction parameters and equilibrium conditions, equilibrium constants and their pressure and temperature dependence. Phase equilibria.
Lecture notesSee homepage of the lecture.
LiteratureSee homepage of the lecture.
Prerequisites / NoticeRequirements: Allgemeine Chemie I, Grundlagen der Mathematik
4. Semester (Physical-Chemical Direction)
Compulsory Subjects
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
529-0431-00LPhysical Chemistry III: Molecular Quantum Mechanics Information Restricted registration - show details O4 credits4GF. Merkt
AbstractPostulates of quantum mechanics, operator algebra, Schrödinger's equation, state functions and expectation values, matrix representation of operators, particle in a box, tunneling, harmonic oscillator, molecular vibrations, angular momentum and spin, generalised Pauli principle, perturbation theory, electronic structure of atoms and molecules, Born-Oppenheimer approximation.
ObjectiveThis is an introductory course in quantum mechanics. The course starts with an overview of the fundamental concepts of quantum mechanics and introduces the mathematical formalism. The postulates and theorems of quantum mechanics are discussed in the context of experimental and numerical determination of physical quantities. The course develops the tools necessary for the understanding and calculation of elementary quantum phenomena in atoms and molecules.
ContentPostulates and theorems of quantum mechanics: operator algebra, Schrödinger's equation, state functions and expectation values. Linear motions: free particles, particle in a box, quantum mechanical tunneling, the harmonic oscillator and molecular vibrations. Angular momentum: electronic spin and orbital motion, molecular rotations. Electronic structure of atoms and molecules: the Pauli principle, angular momentum coupling, the Born-Oppenheimer approximation. Variational principle and perturbation theory. Discussion of bigger systems (solids, nano-structures).
Lecture notesA script written in German will be available. The script is, however, no replacement for personal notes during the lecture and does not cover all aspects discussed.
Electives
The Bachelor's programme in Interdisciplinary Sciences allows students to choose from any subject taught at a Bachelor's level at ETH Zurich.

In consultation with the Director of Studies of Interdisciplinary Sciences, every student must establish his/her own individual study programme at the beginning of the 2nd year. See the Programme Regulations 2018 for further details.
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
529-0230-00LInorganic and Organic Chemistry I Restricted registration - show details
Enrolment only possible up to the beginning of the semester.
W8 credits12PB. Morandi, J. W. Bode
AbstractLaboratory Course in Inorganic and Organic Chemistry I
ObjectiveIntroduction into basic techniques used in the organic laboratory. Understanding organic reactions through experiments.
ContentPart I: Basic operations such as the isolation, purification and characterization of organic compounds: distillation, extraction, chromatography, crystallization, IR (UV/1H-NMR)-spectroscopy for the identification of the constituion of organic compounds.

Part II: Organic reactions: preparative chemistry. From simple, one-step to multistep syntheses. Both classic and modern reactions will be performed.

Part III: Preparation of a chiral, enantiomerically pure ligand for asymmetric catalysis (together with AOCP II)
Literature- R. K. Müller, R. Keese: "Grundoperationen der präparativen organischen Chemie"; J. Leonard, B. Lygo, G. Procter: "Praxis der Organischen Chemie" (Übersetzung herausgegeben von G. Dyker), VCH, Weinheim, 1996, ISBN 3-527-29411-2.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites:
- Praktikum Allgemeine Chemie (1. Semester, 529-0011-04/05)
- Vorlesung Organische Chemie I (1. Semester, 529-0011-03)

Safety conceptt: Link
529-0058-00LAnalytical Chemistry IIW3 credits3GD. Günther, D. Bleiner, T. Bucheli, M.‑O. Ebert, G. Schwarz
AbstractEnhanced knowledge about the elemental analysis and spectrocopical techniques with close relation to practical applications. This course is based on the knowledge from analytical chemistry I. Separation methods are included.
ObjectiveUse and applications of the elemental analysis and spectroscopical knowledge to solve relevant analytical problems.
ContentCombined application of spectroscopic methods for structure determination, and practical application of element analysis. More complex NMR methods: recording techniques, application of exchange phenomena, double resonance, spin-lattice relaxation, nuclear Overhauser effect, applications of experimental 2d and multipulse NMR spectroscopy, shift reagents. Application of chromatographic and electrophoretic separation methods: basics, working technique, quality assessment of a separation method, van-Deemter equation, gas chromatography, liquid chromatography (HPLC, ion chromatography, gel permeation, packing materials, gradient elution, retention index), electrophoresis, electroosmotic flow, zone electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis, isoelectrical focussing, electrochromatography, 2d gel electrophoresis, SDS-PAGE, field flow fractionation, enhanced knowledge in atomic absorption spectroscopy, atomic emission spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, ICP-OES, ICP-MS.
Lecture notesScript will be available
LiteratureLiterature will be within the script.
Prerequisites / NoticeExercises for spectra interpretation are part of the lecture. In addition the lecture 529-0289-00 "Instrumentalanalyse organischer Verbindungen" (4th semester) is recommended.
Prerequisite: 529-0051-00 "Analytische Chemie I" (3rd semester)
529-0122-00LInorganic Chemistry IIW3 credits3GM. Kovalenko, K. Kravchyk
AbstractThe lecture is based on Inorganic Chemistry I and addresses an enhanced understanding of the symmetry aspects of chemical bonding of molecules and translation polymers, i.e. crystal structures.
ObjectiveThe lecture follows Inorganic Chemistry I and addresses an enhanced understanding of the symmetry aspects of chemical bonding of molecules and translation polymers.
ContentSymmetry aspects of chemical bonding, point groups and representations for the deduction of molecular orbitals, energy assessment for molecules and solids, Sanderson formalism, derivation and understanding of band structures, densities of states, overlap populations, crystal symmetry, basic crystal structures and corresponding properties, visual representations of crystal structures.
Lecture notessee Moodle
Literature1. I. Hargittai, M. Hargittai, "Symmetry through the Eyes of a Chemist", Plenum Press, 1995;
2. R. Hoffmann, "Solids and Surfaces", VCH 1988;
3. U. Müller, "Anorganische Strukturchemie", 6. Auflage, Vieweg + Teubner 2008
Prerequisites / NoticeRequirements: Inorganic Chemistry I
529-0222-00LOrganic Chemistry IIW3 credits2V + 1UB. Morandi
AbstractThis course builds on the material learned in Organic Chemistry I or Organic Chemistry II for Biology/Pharmacy Students. Topics include advanced concepts and mechanisms of organic reactions and introductions to pericyclic and organometallic reactions. The basics or retro- and forward synthesis are also introduced.
ObjectiveGoals of this course include a deeper understanding of basic organic reactions and mechanisms as well as advanced transformations. Reactive intermediates including carbenes and nitrenes are covered, along with methods for their generation and use in complex molecule synthesis. Frontier molecular orbital theory (FMO) is introduced and used to rationalize pericyclic reactions including Diels Alder reactions, cycloadditions, and rearrangements (Cope, Claisen). The basic concepts and key reactions of catalytic organometallic chemistry, which are key methods in modern organic synthesis, are introduced, with an emphasis on their catalytic cycles and elementary steps. All of these topics are combined in an overview of strategies for complex molecule synthesis, with specific examples from natural product derived molecules used as medicines.
ContentRedox neutral reactions and rearrangements, advanced transformations of functional groups and reaction mechanisms, carbenes and nitrenes, frontier molecular orbital theory (FMO), cycloadditions and pericyclic reactions, introduction to organometallic chemistry and catalytic cross couplings, protecting groups, retrosynthetic analysis of complex organic molecules, planning and execution of multi-step reactions.
Lecture notesThe lecture notes and additional documents including problem sets are available as PDF files online, without charge. Link: Link
LiteratureClayden, Greeves, and Warren. Organic Chemistry, 2nd Edition. Oxford University Press, 2012.
401-1662-10LIntroduction to Numerical Methods Information W6 credits4G + 2UV. C. Gradinaru
AbstractThis course gives an introduction to numerical methods, aimed at physics majors. It covers numerical linear algebra, quadrature as well as initial vaule problems. The focus is on the ability to apply the numerical methods.
ObjectiveOverview on the most important algorithms for the solution of the fundamental numerical problems in Physics and applications;
overview on available software for the numerical solutions;
ability to solve concrete problems
ability to interpret numerical results
ContentLeast squares (linear and non-linear), nonlinear equations,
numerical quadrature, initial value problems.
Lecture notesNotes, slides and other relevant materials will be available via the web page of the lecture.
LiteratureRelevant materials will be available via the web page of the lecture.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisite is familiarity with basic calculus (approximation theory and vector calculus: grad, div, curl) and linear algebra (Gauss-elimination, matrix decompositions and algorithms, determinant).

Study Center hours:
Do 17-20 in HG E 41
Fr 17-20 in HG E 41
327-3001-00LCrystallography Practical (Basics) Restricted registration - show details W2 credits4PT. Weber
AbstractSingle crystal structures from current scientific projects will be characterized using modern x-ray techniques.
ObjectiveApplication of x-ray scattering methods in crystallography and mineralogy
ContentStructural investigation of single crystals. Evaluation of scattering patterns (lattice constants, systematic extinctions, reflection intensities). Experiments with automatic single crystal diffractometers. Determination and refinement of simple crystal structures.
Prerequisites / NoticePrecondition: lectures on crystallography or x-ray structure determination (e.g. Crystallography I)
401-2334-00LMethods of Mathematical Physics II Information W6 credits3V + 2UT. H. Willwacher
AbstractGroup theory: groups, representation of groups, unitary and orthogonal groups, Lorentz group. Lie theory: Lie algebras and Lie groups. Representation theory: representation theory of finite groups, representations of Lie algebras and Lie groups, physical applications (eigenvalue problems with symmetry).
Objective
402-0275-00LQuantum ElectronicsW10 credits3V + 2US. Johnson
AbstractClassical and semi-classical introduction to Quantum Electronics. Mandatory for further elective courses in Quantum Electronics. The field of Quantum Electronics describes propagation of light and its interaction with matter. The emphasis is set on linear pulse and beam propagation in dispersive media, optical anisotropic materials, and waveguides and lasers.
ObjectiveTeach the fundamental building blocks of Quantum Electronics. After taking this course students will be able to describe light propagation in dispersive and nonlinear media, as well as the operation of polarization optics and lasers.
ContentPropagation of light in dispersive media
Light propagation through interfaces
Interference and coherence
Interferometry
Fourier Optics
Beam propagation
Optical resonators
Laser fundamentals
Polarization optics
Waveguides
Nonlinear optics
Lecture notesScripts will be distributed in class (online) via moodle
LiteratureReference:
Saleh, B.E.A., Teich, M.C.; Fundamentals of Photonics, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., newest edition
Prerequisites / NoticeMandatory lecture for physics students

Prerequisites (minimal): vector analysis, differential equations, Fourier transformation
252-0002-00LData Structures and Algorithms Information W8 credits4V + 2UF. Friedrich Wicker
AbstractThe course provides the foundations for the design and analysis of algorithms.
Classical problems ranging from sorting up to problems on graphs are used to discuss common data structures, algorithms and algorithm design paradigms.
The course also comprises an introduction to parallel and concurrent programming and the programming model of C++ is discussed in some depth.
ObjectiveAn understanding of the analysis and design of fundamental and common algorithms and data structures. Deeper insight into a modern programming model by means of the programming language C++. Knowledge regarding chances, problems and limits of parallel and concurrent programming.
ContentData structures and algorithms: mathematical tools for the analysis of algorithms (asymptotic function growth, recurrence equations, recurrence trees), informal proofs of algorithm correctness (invariants and code transformation), design paradigms for the development of algorithms (induction, divide-and-conquer, backtracking and dynamic programming), classical algorithmic problems (searching, selection and sorting), data structures for different purposes (linked lists, hash tables, balanced search trees, quad trees, heaps, union-find), further tools for runtime analysis (generating functions, amortized analysis. The relationship and tight coupling between algorithms and data structures is illustrated with graph algorithms (traversals, topological sort, closure, shortest paths, minimum spanning trees, max flow).

Programming model of C++: correct and efficient memory handling, generic programming with templates, exception handling, functional approaches with functors and lambda expressions.

Parallel programming: structure of parallel architectures (multicore, vectorization, pipelining) concepts of parallel programming (Amdahl's and Gustavson's laws, task/data parallelism, scheduling), problems of concurrency (data races, bad interleavings, memory reordering), process synchronisation and communication in a shared memory system (mutual exclusion, semaphores, monitors, condition variables), progress conditions (freedom from deadlock, starvation, lock- and wait-freedom). The concepts are underpinned with examples of concurrent and parallel programs and with parallel algorithms, implemented in C++.

In general, the concepts provided in the course are motivated and illustrated with practically relevant algorithms and applications.

Exercises are carried out in Code-Expert, an online IDE and exercise management system.

All required mathematical tools above high school level are covered, including a basic introduction to graph theory.
LiteratureCormen, Leiserson, Rivest, and Stein: Introduction to Algorithms, 3rd ed., MIT Press, 2009. ISBN 978-0-262-03384-8 (recommended text)

Maurice Herlihy, Nir Shavit, The Art of Multiprocessor Programming, Elsevier, 2012.

B. Stroustrup, The C++ Programming Language (4th Edition) Addison-Wesley, 2013.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites:
Lecture Series 252-0835-00L Informatik I or equivalent knowledge in programming with C++.
529-0442-00LAdvanced Kinetics Information W6 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.
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
551-0108-00LFundamentals of Biology II: Plant BiologyW2 credits2VO. Voinnet, W. Gruissem, S. C. Zeeman
AbstractWater balance, assimilation, transport in plants; developmental biology, stress physiology.
ObjectiveWater balance, assimilation, transport in plants; developmental biology, stress physiology.
Lecture notesPlant Biology: Handouts of the powerpoint presentation will be distributed. It can also be viewed in a password-protected web link.
LiteratureSmith, A.M., et al.: Plant Biology, Garland Science, New York, Oxford, 2010
551-0110-00LFundamentals of Biology II: MicrobiologyW2 credits2VJ. Vorholt-Zambelli, W.‑D. Hardt, J. Piel
AbstractBacterial cell biology, molecular genetics, gene regulation, growth physiology, metabolism (Bacteria and Archaea), natural products, microbial interactions
ObjectiveBasic principles of cell structure, growth physiology, energy metabolism, gene expression and regulation. Biodiversity of Bacteria and Archaea. Phylogeny and evolution.
ContentBacterial cell biology, molecular genetics, gene regulation, growth physiology, metabolism (Bacteria and Archaea), natural products, microbial interactions
LiteratureBrock, Biology of Microorganisms (Madigan, M.T. and Martinko, J.M., eds.), 14th ed., Pearson Prentice Hall, 2015
701-0401-00LHydrosphereW3 credits2VR. Kipfer, M. H. Schroth
AbstractThe course aims to describe the relevant processes that control the terrestrial water cycle. Energy and mass exchange, mixing and transport processes are described and the coupling of the hydrosphere with the atmosphere and the solid Earth are discussed.
ObjectiveQualitative and quantitative understanding on how physical (and geochemical) processes control the natural dynamics in groundwater, lakes ans oceans and constrain the exchange of mass and energy.
ContentTopics of the course.
Physical properties of water (i.e. density and equation of state)
- global water resources
Exchange at boundaries
- energy (thermal & kinetic), gas exchange
Mixing and transport processes in open waters
- vertical stratification, large scale transport
- turbulence and mixing
- mixing and exchange processes in rivers
Groundwater and its dynamics
- ground water as part of the terrestrial water cycle
- ground water hydraulics, Darcy's law
- aquifers and their properties
- hydrochemistry and tracer
- ground water use
Case studies
- 1. Water as resource, 2. Water and climate
Lecture notesIn addition to the suggested literature handouts are distributed.
LiteratureSuggested literature.
a) Park, Ch., 2001, The Environment, Routledge, 2001
b) Fitts, C.R., 2013. Groundwater Science. 2nd ed., Academic Press, Amsterdam.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe case studies and the analysis of the questions and problems are integral part of the course.
701-0245-00LEvolutionary AnalysisW2 credits2VS. Wielgoss, G. Velicer
AbstractThis course introduces important questions about the evolutionary processes involved in the generation and maintenance of biological diversity across all domains of life and how evolutionary science investigates these questions.
ObjectiveThis course introduces important questions about the evolutionary processes involved in the generation and maintenance of biological diversity across all domains of life and how evolutionary science investigates these questions. The topics covered range from different forms of selection, phylogenetic analysis, population genetics, life history theory, the evolution of sex, social evolution to human evolution. These topics are important for the understanding of a number of evolutionary problems in the basic and applied sciences.
ContentTopics likely to be covered in this course include research methods in evolutionary biology, adaptation, evolution of sex, evolutionary transitions, human evolution, infectious disease evolution, life history evolution, macroevolution, mechanisms of evolution, phylogenetic analysis, population dynamics, population genetics, social evolution, speciation and types of selection.
LiteratureTextbook:
Evolutionary Analysis
Scott Freeman and Jon Herron
5th Edition, English.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe exam is based on lecture and textbook.
529-0012-02LGeneral Chemistry (Inorganic Chemistry) IIW+4 credits3V + 1UJ. Cvengros, H. Grützmacher
Abstract1) General definitions 2) The VSEPR model 3) Qualitative molecular orbital diagrams 4) Closest packing, metal structures 5) The Structures of metalloids
6) Structures of the non-metals 7) Synthesis of the elements 8) Reactivity of the elements 9) Ionic Compounds 10) Ions in Solution 11) Element hydrogen compounds 12) Element halogen compounds 13) Element oxygen compounds 14) Redox chemistry
ObjectiveUnderstanding of the fundamental principles of the structures, properties, and reactivities of the main group elements (groups 1,2 and 13 to 18).
ContentThe course is divided in 14 sections in which the fundamental phenomena of the chemistry of the main group elements are discussed: Part 1: Introduction in the periodical properties of the elements and general definitions –Part 2: The VSEPR model –Part 3: Qualitative molecular orbital diagrams for simple inorganic molecules – Part 4: Closest packing and structures of metals Part 5: The Structures of semimetals (metalloids) of the main group elements –Part 6: Structures of the non-metals– Part 7: Synthesis of the elements. –Part 8: Reactivity of the elements Part 9: Ionic Compounds Part 10: Ions in Solution Part 11: Element hydrogen compounds Part 12: Element halogen compounds Part 13: Element oxygen compounds Part 14: Redox chemistry.
Lecture notesThe transparencies used in the course are accessible via the internet on Link
LiteratureJ. Huheey, E. Keiter, R. Keiter, Inorganic Chemistry, Principles and Reactivity, 4th edition, deGruyter, 2003.

C.E.Housecroft, E.C.Constable, Chemistry, 4th edition, Pearson Prentice Hall, 2010.
Prerequisites / NoticeBasis for the understanding of this lecture is the course Allgemeine Chemie 1.
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