Chemical reactions proceed, as a rule, with the formation of several products, the establishment of the composition and structure of which is the main task of researchers. To solve it, it is necessary to isolate substances, prove their individuality and, using physical research methods, determine their structure. In this regard, we will consider the basics of the most popular physical methods in chemistry, such as chromatography, mass spectrometry, optical spectroscopy (microwave, terahertz, IR, UV, visible region, X-ray), including magnetic resonance methods (NMR, EPR). Practical advice will be given on the interpretation of the spectra. General provisions are illustrated with specific examples on study of simple and complex compounds. We will talk about obtaining of the most important characteristics of materials using thermal methods (TC, DSC, TGA), methods for studying of rheological properties, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and electron microscopy (TEM, SEM).
The course is worth 4 credits and runs at the spring semester. By the end of this course you will be able to:

1. Identify the problem (determine type of information needed: qualitative and quantitative characterization, identify context of the problem);

2. Design the experimental procedure: establish design criteria (accuracy, precision, scale of operation, sensitivity, selectivity, cost, speed); identify interferent factors; select method; establish validation criteria; establish sampling strategy;

3. Conduct experiment (calibrate instruments, take measurements, gather data);

4. Analyze the experimental data (reduce or transform data, analyze statistics, verify results, interpret results);

5. Propose a solution of the problem, conduct external evaluation, estimate perspectives