Inquiry-based exercises in physical chemistry

CHED 1414

Megan Boyle, mboyle01@saintmarys.edu, Katie White, kwhite01@saintmarys.edu, and Toni Barstis, tbarstis@saintmarys.edu. Department of Chemistry, Saint Mary's College, Saint Mary's College, Notre Dame, IN 46556
As double majors in mathematics and chemistry, Megan and Katie have had a unique opportunity to integrate and apply their knowledge of mathematics, physics, and chemistry to an undergraduate research project. In the past, they have developed inquiry-based exercises based on the quantum mechanical model of the hydrogenic atom. This current project involves the mathematics of group theory (symmetry) as applied to spectroscopy. Each exercise employs the skills of linear and modern algebra. Through this research experience, Megan and Katie have gained experience in performing undergraduate research in pedagogy, expanded their own understanding of mathematics and chemistry, and assisted other Saint Mary's students in learning difficult and abstract concepts.