Chemistry 120A serves as an informal yet rigorous introduction to many concepts prevalent in modern quantum mechanics. The first few weeks focus on formalisms which require a decent mathematical background in multivariable calculus, ordinary differential equations, and linear algebra. Abilities such as diagonalizing matrices and identifying separable equations is important. The next few weeks focus on basic physical systems, approximation methods, and applications. The topics covered in this class vary based on professor; though typically, computational methods for quantum chemistry and quantum statistics are introduced. Note that this class is pretty much unrelated to Chem 120B; you can take the two classes in either order.
MATH 53, MATH 54, PHYS 7A, PHYS 7B (Required) with grade of C- or higher
3 hours of lecture per week. 15-20 hours per problem set.
This class is usually taken by second-semester sophomores, or juniors and seniors. This class is very time-intensive. Most students work in groups or consult GSIs and students who took the class before.
This class requires a strong background in mathematics. Make sure to fully review 54 and perhaps 53 before class. The homework for this class often requires a tremendous amount of time, make sure to start early and go to office hours.
This class does not correlate to Chem 120B. Many students take Chem 120B before Chem 120A.
This class covers more than Physics 137A covers. ChemE majors have a choice between Chem 120A and Physics 137A.
Written by: Alex Oanta
Last edited: Spring 2018