The discussion centers around the comparison of quantum chemistry and quantum mechanics in terms of their theoretical demands, particularly from the perspective of a chemical engineering major considering course options. Participants explore the content and prerequisites of quantum chemistry courses and how they relate to quantum mechanics.
Participants do not reach a consensus on whether quantum chemistry is more theory-heavy than chemical engineering, and there are multiple competing views regarding the prerequisites and content of quantum chemistry courses.
There is uncertainty regarding the specific content and structure of the quantum chemistry course, as well as the prerequisites required for it. The discussion reflects varying interpretations of course titles and their implications.
Students considering courses in quantum chemistry or quantum mechanics, particularly those with a background in chemical engineering or related fields.
cgk said:OP, I find it confusing that you have this choice. Quantum chemistry should usually require that you already have a solid understanding of quantum mechanics as prerequisite. It is an advanced topic dealing with many-body quantum mechanics, and how this can be made to work in realistic systems.
The way its taught will depend amazingly on the instructor.vincent_vega said:The class is physical chemistry but I hear everyone refer to it as quantum chemistry, my bad. The first semester of pchem deals with quantum mechanics. Not sure how it compares with the physics version.