Supramolecular and Macromolecular Chemistry (KemiSM)

Knowledge:
The student should gain knowledge on the non-covalent interactions responsible for the formation of supramolecular complexes and aggregates, and how to design a host molecule for a specific guest molecule or ion. Moreover, knowledge on characterization techniques should be gained as well as on how to design supramolecular devices, sensors, and machines.

Skills:
The student should be able to

• classify the weak non-covalent interactions.
• classify a variety of host molecules for specific guest molecules / ions.
• classify solvents based on macroscopic and molecular properties.
• demonstrate knowledge on experimental techniques typically used to characterize host-guest complexes in solution.
• identify templates for template-directed synthesis, for example for the synthesis of mechanically interlocked molecules.
• use electronic databases for finding original literature.

Competences:

The student should be able to

• explain the criteria for the formation of supramolecular systems.
• judge the nature of non-covalent interactions which are responsible for the formation of a specific host-guest complex.
• estimate the size and distance dependence of intermolecular interactions.
• judge enthalpic and entropic contributions relevant for the formation of aggregates and host-guest complexes in solution.
• design supramolecular devices that explore light or electrochemical stimuli.
• design molecular sensors.
• judge and evaluate original publications that deal with design, synthesis and characterization of supramolecular systems and devices.