7. Quantum Mechanical Kinetic Energy
Richard M. Colgate Professor of Chemistry
This lecture transitions from the limitations of Lewis bonding theory to the fundamentals of quantum mechanics, interpreting the wave function ψ and its role in determining kinetic energy via the Schrödinger equation. It explores the concept of negative kinetic energy based on the curvature of ψ.
Freshman Organic Chemistry (CHEM 125)
After pointing out several discrepancies between electron difference density results and Lewis bonding theory, the course proceeds to quantum mechanics in search of a fundamental understanding of chemical bonding. The wave function ψ, which beginning students find confusing, was equally confusing to the physicists who created quantum mechanics. The Schrödinger equation reckons kinetic energy through the shape of ψ. When ψ curves toward zero, kinetic energy is positive; but when it curves away, kinetic energy is negative!
6. Seeing Bonds by Electron Difference Density
Next · Lecture 8Lecture 8: One-Dimensional Wave Functions (CHEM 125a)