Inorganic and Physical Chemistry Laboratory In this course students will carry out experiments in the field of inorganic and physical chemistry and write journal-style reports based on their results.  In the first half of the semester students will conduct a multi-step synthesis and characterization of a Mo-Mo complex with a quadruple bond.  Students will learn inert atmosphere synthetic techniques and how to use a glove box.  The synthesized Mo-Mo complex will be characterized by UV-Vis, IR, 1H and 31P NMR spectroscopies, and cyclic voltammetry.  In the second half of the semester students will conduct two physical chemistry experiments.  First students will carry out a kinetic study of the  isomerization of the  Mo-Mo (alpha to beta or beta to alpha) complex by UV-Vis spectroscopy.  Finally, students will obtain the high-resolution IR spectra of acetylene and deuterated acetylene and analyze the rotation-vibration spectra using statistical and quantum mechanics to obtain structural data and interpret the peak intensities.  In addition to the laboratory activities, there will be lectures on metal quadruple bonds, principles of UV-Vis , IR, 1H and 31P NMR spectroscopies, cyclic voltammetry, and statistical mechanics.

Thermodynamics and Kinetics for Chemical and Biological Sciences In this course students will learn the central ideas that frame thermodynamics and kinetics.  The application of these ideas to chemical, biological, and the environmental processes will be covered using examples such as refrigerators, heat pumps, fuel cells, bioenergetics, lipid membranes, and catalysts (including enzymes).  (PHYS 0108 or PHYS 0109 or PHYS 0110 and MATH 0122 and CHEM 0204) 3 hrs lect., 1 hr disc.

General Chemistry I Major topics will include atomic theory and atomic structure; chemical bonding; stoichiometry; introduction to chemical thermodynamics. States of matter; solutions and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory work deals with testing of theories by various quantitative methods. Students with strong secondary school preparation are encouraged to consult the department chair for permission to elect CHEM 0104 or CHEM 0107 in place of this course. CHEM 0103 is also an appropriate course for a student with little or no prior preparation in chemistry who would like to learn about basic chemical principles while fulfilling the SCI or DED distribution requirement.

Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy Quantum theory is developed and applied to atomic structure and molecular bonding. Spectroscopy is examined as an application of quantum theory.

Envisioning Future Energy Systems in a Time of Climate Change Energy is crucial to human survival and prosperity, yet the energy generation systems of the past ~150 years have created a warming climate. How might we provide more energy to more people with fewer negative impacts on Earth’s environment and its inhabitants? In this seminar, we will compare different primary energy sources such as fossil fuels, solar, nuclear, and wind in order to assess various pathways to a decarbonized future. Readings will include excerpts from government reports, scientific literature, popular media, as well as guest speakers.

Instrumental Analysis In this course we will learn fundamental concepts of analytical chemistry, instrumental analysis, and scientific writing. Lecture topics include experimental design and quality control; sample collection and preparation; calibration, error, and data analysis; statistics; and the theory and operation of chemical instrumentation. Multi-week laboratory projects provide hands-on experience in qualitative and quantitative analysis using a variety of research-quality instrumentation (e.g., UV/Vis spectrophotometry, gas chromatography mass spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry). Writing workshops promote professional scientific writing skills through guided practice in writing analysis, peer review, and revision. (CHEM 0204 or CHEM 0242) 3 hr. lect., 6 hrs. lab.

Ben Cotts

Reviews and ratings for Ben Cotts at Middlebury College.Ben Cotts teaches Inorganic & Physical Chemistry, Thermodynamics and Kinetics, General Chemistry I and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Ben Cotts good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Quantum is inherently a difficult class, but Ben really does his best to condense the material and limit the advanced math. The class moves fast (especially at the end) but it is also a very laid-back atmosphere. Take-home exams made you think but were very fair and grading was quite easy. There is definitely an emphasis on learning over grades, which I think is a great way to approach a course with content this complex.

I  had a great semester with Ben teaching thermo. He was very fair with his grading and usually there is one problem set that is very similar to the exams. He is very approachable with any questions and tries to relate the conceptual material to everyday scenarios. 

I don't really like thermo, but taking it with Ben was not bad at all! He is very passionate about the material and I think the homework really reflects the exam material. The exams also were fair and if you understand the homework you will do fine on the exams.