Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - CHEM 260 D100

Atoms, Molecules, Spectroscopy (4)

Class Number: 1619

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Tue, Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Samira Siahrostami
    ssiahros@sfu.ca
    778-782-9546
    Office: SCC9067

  • Prerequisites:

    CHEM 122 or CHEM 180, MATH 152, and PHYS 121, 126 or 141 (or PHYS 102 with a minimum grade of B), all with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: MATH 232.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Develops the fundamentals of quantum mechanics and applies them to problems and concepts of significance to all branches of chemistry. Atomic structure and models of chemical bonding will be discussed. The principles of spectroscopic measurements and simplified models will be used to understand and predict molecular spectra. PHYS 285 will be accepted in lieu of CHEM 260.

COURSE DETAILS:

Please note, this course outline was accurate at the time of publication but is subject to change.

Mode of Teaching:
3 lecture hours/week; 1 tutorial hour/week; 2 lab hours/week

Lecture: In-Person, Burnaby Campus
Laboratory: In-Person, Burnaby Campus
Tutorial: In-Person, Burnaby Campus

Lecture Topics:

Introduction to principles of quantum mechanics
Exactly solvable quantum mechanical models
Atomic structure
Chemical bonding
Molecular spectroscopy (microwave, infrared, visible, magnetic resonance, Raman)

Note: This course will cover topics 7, 8, 9, 11, and 12 from the primary textbook.

Grading

  • Labs/Assignments/Quiz 30%
  • Midterm Exam 30%
  • Final Exam 40%

NOTES:

Grading Notes: A mark of less than 50% in the lab section of the course and/or a mark of less than 30% in the final exam will result in a grade of F.

REQUIREMENTS:

Attendance of In-Person Laboratory Sessions: It is mandatory for students to attend all in-person laboratory sessions. If you are unable to attend an in-person laboratory session due to illness, please contact your instructor as soon as possible to discuss alternative arrangements.

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

P. Atkins, J. de Paula, and J. Keeler, Atkins' Physical Chemistry, Volume 2, 12th Edition, 2023, Publisher: Oxford University Press. 
ISBN: 9780198851318

Department Undergraduate Notes:

A grade of C- or better is required for all prerequisite courses.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.