Enquiry for Science Major/Minor/Programme Requirements
CHEM3542 Physical chemistry: statistical thermodynamics and kinetics theory (6 credits) Academic Year 2026
Offering Department Chemistry Quota 50
Course Co-ordinator Prof J Yang, Chemistry < juny@hku.hk >
Teachers Involved (Prof J Yang,Chemistry)
Course Objectives The course presents fundamental principles and topics on statistical thermodynamics and kinetic theory in order to provide a solid foundation for students intending to further their studies in physical chemistry and related fields.
Course Contents & Topics Principles of Statistical Thermodynamics
- Statistical model and state distribution for thermodynamics
- Statistical entropy
- Ensembles and partition functions: microcanonical and canonical
- Systems of independent molecules: ideal gas
- Molecular degrees of freedom: translation, rotation, vibration, and electronic
- Ideal gas mixture: chemical equilibrium
- Calculation of free energies in gaseous reaction

Chemical equilibrium and kinetics theory
- Rate theory: collision theory, transition state theory and applications
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

CLO 1 understand and use the terminology and nomenclature in statistical thermodynamics and topics discussed in the course
CLO 2 demonstrate knowledge and understanding of basic concepts in statistical thermodynamics
CLO 3 understand correlation between macroscopic observables and microscopic statistical model systems
Pre-requisites
(and Co-requisites and
Impermissible combinations)		 Pass in CHEM2541 and CHEM3541
Course Status with Related Major/Minor /Professional Core 2026 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2026 Minor in Chemistry ( Disciplinary Elective )
2025 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2025 Minor in Chemistry ( Disciplinary Elective )
2024 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2024 Minor in Chemistry ( Disciplinary Elective )
2023 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2023 Minor in Chemistry ( Disciplinary Elective )
2022 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) ( Core/Compulsory )
2022 Minor in Chemistry ( Disciplinary Elective )
Course to PLO Mapping 2026 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2025 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2024 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2023 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
2022 Major in Chemistry (Intensive) < PLO 1,2,3,4,5 >
Offer in 2026 - 2027 Y        2nd sem    Examination May     
Offer in 2027 - 2028 Y
Course Grade A+ to F
Grade Descriptors
A Thorough mastery at an advanced level of extensive knowledge of statistical thermodynamics and reaction dynamics. Demonstrate evidence of strong analytical / critical abilities and logical thinking. Can apply the knowledge to practical questions in Physical Chemistry.
B Substantial command of knowledge of statistical thermodynamics and reaction dynamics. Demonstrate evidence of analytical / critical abilities and logical thinking. Understand the scope of Physical Chemistry questions that can be applied with the knowledge.
C General but incomplete command of knowledge of statistical thermodynamics and reaction dynamics. Demonstrate evidence of analytical thinking. Can apply the knowledge to familiar situations.
D Partial but limited command of knowledge of knowledge of statistical thermodynamics and reaction dynamics. Demonstrate limited evidence of analytical thinking. Understand the question to be solved with knowledge.
Fail Little or no evidence of command of knowledge of statistical thermodynamics and reaction dynamics.
Communication-intensive Course N
Course Type Lecture with laboratory component course
Course Teaching
& Learning Activities
Activities Details No. of Hours
Laboratory 24.0
Lectures 24.0
Tutorials 8.0
Reading / Self study 100.0
Assessment Methods
and Weighting
Methods Details Weighting in final
course grade (%)		 Assessment Methods
to CLO Mapping
Assignments 50.0 1,2,3
Examination 50.0 1,2,3
Required/recommended reading
and online materials		 P. Atkins: Physical Chemistry (10th edition)
K.A. Dill & S. Bromberg: Molecular driving forces: statistical thermodynamics in biology, chemistry, physics and nanoscicence (2nd edition)
B. Widom: Statistical Mechanics: a concise introduction to chemists
L. Nash: Elements of statistical thermodynamics (2nd edition)
Course Website Nil
Additional Course Information There are three mandatory homework assignments. Laboratory classes are mandatory.  Students must complete ALL experiments and laboratory reports to pass this course.


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