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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2008  > December  >
In the Laboratory
Integrating Statistical Mechanics with Experimental Data from the Rotational–Vibrational Spectrum of HCl into the Physical Chemistry Laboratory
Bret R. Findley
Department of Chemistry and Physics, Saint Michael's College, Colchester, VT 05439

Steven E. Mylon
Department of Chemistry, Lafayette College, Easton, PA 18042

Cover
December 2008
Vol. 85 No. 12
p. 1670

Abstract
We introduce a computer exercise that bridges spectroscopy and thermodynamics using statistical mechanics and the experimental data taken from the commonly used laboratory exercise involving the rotational–vibrational spectrum of HCl. Based on the results from the analysis of their HCl spectrum, students calculate bulk thermodynamic properties such as internal energy, absolute entropy, molar enthalpy of formation, and Gibbs energy of formation at 25 °C. This exercise serves as an opportunity for students to review the vibrational–rotational spectrum of HCl and to put in to practice their knowledge of statistical mechanics. The results show excellent agreement with values found in most introductory physical chemistry texts. This is a nice teaching tool because it uses experimental data to demonstrate the inter-relationship between quantum mechanical states and the bulk thermodynamic properties of gases.
Supplement
A full set of instructions for students as well as notes and a copy of typical MS-EXCEL results for the instructor
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Citation
Findley, Bret R.; Mylon, Steven E. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1670.
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Keywords
Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; IR Spectroscopy; Laboratory Instruction; Physical Chemistry; Physical Properties; Spectroscopy; Statistical Mechanics; Upper-Division Undergraduate
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History
Created:
Last Updated:
10/24/2008
11/7/2008
 Caution! 
Experiments, laboratory exercises, lecture demonstrations, and other descriptions of the use of chemicals, apparatus, instruments, computers, and computer interfaces are presented in the Journal of Chemical Education as illustrative of new or improved ideas or concepts in chemistry instruction and are directed at qualified teachers. Although every effort is made to assure and encourage safe practices and safe use of chemicals, the Journal of Chemical Education cannot assume responsibility for uses made of its published materials. Many chemicals are hazardous. Precautions for the safe use of hazardous chemicals and directions for their proper disposal are described in the Material Safety Data Sheets and on the labels. We strongly urge all those planning to use materials from our pages to make choices and to develop procedures for laboratory and classroom safety in accordance with local needs and situations.
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