CHEM 719/749: Nanoscience: Chemistry and Physics of Low-Dimensional Materials
An introduction to nanoscience, or, the chemistry and physics of low-dimensional materials.
The course will begin by identifying characteristic length scales that determine the
electronic and optical properties of materials through discussion of band structure,
effective mass, charge carriers, and conductivity in metals and semiconductors. We
will then explore: Size-dependence of electronic and optical properties of materials,
including quantum confinement; the electrochemical double layer and properties of
colloidal solutions; synthetic routes to nanostructures with control of shape and
composition. These concepts will enable students to understand and innovate in many
areas of nanoscience and materials science. The second half of the course includes
student-led discussions of current literature. Examples of applications in biomedical
imaging, solar cells, and energy conversion and storage will be discussed. This course
is cross-listed as Chem 649 for undergraduates who have completed Chem 541 and 542.