Molecular Foundations for Chemical Engineering

Many critical challenges in chemical engineering, from reaction design to material properties, are rooted in phenomena at the molecular level. Grasping these microscopic interactions is fundamental to solving macroscopic problems. This course provides a foundational understanding of how molecular behavior dictates the macroscopic properties and processes in chemical engineering, enabling you to approach complex problems with a new perspective. What you'll learn: * Understand the foundational concepts of molecular thermodynamics and statistical mechanics * Apply principles of intermolecular forces to predict material behavior and phase transitions * Analyze transport phenomena from a molecular perspective, including diffusion and viscosity * Explore the molecular basis of chemical reaction kinetics and equilibrium * Predict and interpret macroscopic properties based on microscopic interactions * Learn how computational molecular simulation informs modern chemical engineering design * Practice solving fundamental chemical engineering problems using molecular insights The course progresses from foundational concepts in molecular thermodynamics and statistical mechanics to their application in understanding transport phenomena, phase equilibria, and material properties. It concludes with an introduction to how computational tools leverage these molecular insights in modern engineering. This course is designed for absolute beginners with no prior experience in molecular chemical engineering. No advanced mathematical or scientific background is required beyond basic college-level chemistry and physics. Begin your journey into the molecular world of chemical engineering and build a robust foundation for future studies.