Episodes
Saturday Feb 19, 2011
Episode 15: Chemical Bonding
Saturday Feb 19, 2011
Saturday Feb 19, 2011
An overview of how atoms bond together to form different chemical substances, including a discussion of the tree main types of bonds (covalent, ionic and metallic), and the relationship of these bonding types to the concept of electronegativity. I also discuss the difference between polar and non-polar bonds, and conclude with some interesting applications of bonding theory to understanding the properties of materials.
Monday Feb 07, 2011
Episode 14: Principles of Quantum Mechanics
Monday Feb 07, 2011
Monday Feb 07, 2011
An introduction to the key principles of quantum mechanics, beginning with an examination of the quantum-mechanical description of the behaviour of electrons around atomic nuclei. This is followed by an overview of some of the other major principles of quantum theory, including the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, the Pauli Exclusion Principle, quantum tunnelling and entanglement. The episode concludes with a discussion of alternative interpretations of these quantum phenomena. Recommended pre-listening is Episode 8: The Atom.