Molecular Spectroscopy Course: A Physical Chemist's Guide | IIT Bombay
Course Details
| Exam Registration | 70 |
|---|---|
| Course Status | Ongoing |
| Course Type | Core |
| Language | English |
| Duration | 12 weeks |
| Categories | Chemistry |
| Credit Points | 3 |
| Level | Undergraduate/Postgraduate |
| Start Date | 19 Jan 2026 |
| End Date | 10 Apr 2026 |
| Enrollment Ends | 02 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Registration Ends | 20 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Date | 24 Apr 2026 IST |
| NCrF Level | 4.5 — 8.0 |
Molecular Spectroscopy: A Physical Chemist’s Perspective
Welcome to a deep dive into the fascinating world of Molecular Spectroscopy, the cornerstone technique for probing the structure, dynamics, and interactions of molecules. This comprehensive guide is based on the acclaimed course offered by Prof. Anindya Datta from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay. Whether you are an undergraduate, postgraduate student, or a professional in Chemistry, Physics, or Engineering, this article outlines the journey you will undertake in this 12-week intellectual expedition.
About the Instructor: Prof. Anindya Datta
Learning from an expert shapes understanding. This course is designed and delivered by Prof. Anindya Datta, a distinguished Professor of Chemistry at IIT Bombay. With a prolific research career focused on ultrafast spectroscopy and time-resolved fluorescence microscopy, Prof. Datta brings cutting-edge experimental insight to theoretical concepts. His dedication to teaching is evidenced by 17 years of experience, mentoring 14 Ph.D. graduates to completion, and receiving the Excellence in Teaching Award from IIT Bombay in 2017. He has also successfully taught two NPTEL courses, making complex topics accessible to a national audience.
Course Overview: What You Will Learn
This course, mirroring the rigorous CH 442 curriculum of IIT Bombay, is a meticulous progression from fundamental principles to advanced applications. It is structured to build a robust, quantum-mechanical understanding of how molecules interact with light.
Intended Audience: Undergraduate/Postgraduate students of Chemistry, Physics, and Engineering.
Duration: 12 Weeks
Detailed Course Layout: A Week-by-Week Journey
| Week | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Introduction, Dispersive spectrometers, Fourier Transform spectrometers, Signal-to-Noise Ratio, Microwave Spectroscopy of diatomic molecules. |
| Week 2 | Derivation of selection rules for microwave spectra, Simple harmonic oscillator, Selection rule, Rovibrational spectra. |
| Week 3 | Anharmonic perturbation, Raman effect, Raman spectroscopy. |
| Week 4 | Time-dependent perturbation theory, Interaction of radiation with matter, Fermi’s golden rule. |
| Week 5 | Einstein treatment, Lasers and lineshapes, Laser spectroscopy. |
| Week 6 | Magnetic resonance, Classical treatment of relaxation, Pulse sequences. |
| Week 7 | Perturbation theory for weak coupling, Variation method for strong coupling, Double resonance techniques. |
| Week 8 | Nuclear quadrupole resonance, Zeeman effect, Field effect on diatomic vibrotor. |
| Week 9 | Hyperfine interactions, Electronic spectra of diatomic molecules, Fortrat diagram. |
| Week 10 | Matrix vector formulation of vibration of polyatomic molecules, Normal modes of vibration, Symmetry of normal modes and IR/Raman activity. |
| Week 11 & 12 | Summary and Revision. |
Why This Course is Essential for Your Growth
Molecular spectroscopy is not just a subject; it's the language of molecular identity. This course offers a unique blend of theory and practical insight:
- From Fundamentals to Frontiers: Starts with instrument principles (dispersive/FT spectrometers) and advances to quantum mechanical treatments and ultrafast laser techniques.
- Quantum Mechanical Rigor: Moves beyond phenomenological rules to derive selection rules from time-dependent perturbation theory, providing a deeper understanding of "why" transitions occur.
- Symmetry as a Tool: Teaches you to use group theory to predict IR and Raman activity in complex polyatomic molecules, a critical skill in research.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Encompasses the entire electromagnetic spectrum—microwave, IR, Raman, visible/UV, and magnetic resonance spectroscopies.
Recommended Textbooks
To complement the lectures, Prof. Datta recommends the following authoritative texts, which are classics in the field:
- Molecular Spectroscopy by I. N. Levine
- Molecular Spectroscopy by G. M. Barrow
- Fundamentals of Molecular Spectroscopy by C. N. Banwell and E. M. McCash
These books will serve as valuable references for detailed derivations, problems, and extended reading.
Conclusion: Unlock the Secrets of Molecules
Molecular Spectroscopy: A Physical Chemist’s Perspective is more than a course; it's a masterclass in interpreting the silent conversations molecules have with light. Guided by an award-winning instructor from IIT Bombay, you will gain the analytical tools and theoretical foundation to excel in advanced studies, research, and industrial R&D. Embrace this opportunity to see molecules in a whole new light.
Ready to begin your spectroscopic journey? Dive into this structured, 12-week program and transform your understanding of molecular science.
Enroll Now →