Molecular Spectroscopy and Diffraction

Education facts

Code: 5KE195

The course comprises two modules: Module 1: Theory, 6,5 ECTS Module 2, Laboratory exercises, 1 ECTS The course will cover fundamental aspects of molecular spectroscopy, and diffraction. Techniques based on these principles are important to all fields of chemistry. *Molecular spectroscopy* is primarily focused on optical spectroscopic information arising from either atomic movement -- such as infrared or Raman spectroscopies -- or electron transitions between different molecular orbitals. You will learn basic group theory to understand and predict IR and Raman spectra on a fundamental level, and to use symmetry to construct and use molecular orbital diagrams for polyatomic molecules, in order to predict and understand electronic transitions in molecules. Electronic transitions in d-block elements will also be covered. *Diffraction* is a key technique for gaining atomic level information about the molecular structure in solid crystalline materials. Crystalline materials contain periodic arrangements of atoms that cause incident beams of X-rays, electrons or neutrons to produce constructive interference patterns, which in turn provide element and position-dependent information of the crystalline material. You will learn the basic principles behind diffraction, with a special focus on X-ray crystallography and its use for the study and determination of crystalline structures. The course will be given in English on request.

Entry requirements

Fundamentals of Chemistry, 15 ECTS, or the equivalent.

Education offerings

Each offering has its own dates and conditions. Closed offerings are retained as history and do not mean that a new application is open.

• Molecular Spectroscopy and Diffraction

  Umeå University

  Start date: 31 August 2026

  End date: 29 September 2026

  Pace of study: 100 %