Groups of 2-4 students (depending on class size) are each assigned a different collaborative project that involves using DFT calculations to evaluate some of the principles of inorganic structure and bonding developed in lectures throughout the semester.  Each “project” involves comparing the computed properties (spectroscopic (IR), geometric,or relative energies) of a series of molecules and drawing conclusions about the observed differences using concepts developed in class. For each project, a handout is provided, describing the assigned task and providing insightful questions to guide their group discussions. Examples of assignments and the corresponding handouts are attached below.

Molecules are constructed and Gaussian 09 calculations are set up using the user-friendly Gaussview interface.  Each group project involves 4-8 calculations,enough that each student gets practice setting up a calculation.  Upon completion of their DFT calculations,each group of students collects their data and together they explain the IR results using concepts they learned in class.