Abstract: Chemical potential, as a core concept in physical chemistry thermodynamics, serves as a fundamental tool for understanding mass transfer, reaction spontaneity, and phase equilibrium. However, its abstract nature and intensive mathematical derivations make it both a key focus and a challenging aspect in undergraduate education. This study employs metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), the subject of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, as an applied case study to extend chemical potential theory. By examining the chemical potential mechanisms involved in MOF crystallization, adsorption, and catalytic processes, we developed a teaching model that integrates theoretical foundations of chemical potential with cutting-edge MOF applications through interactive inquiry. Results demonstrate that this approach reduces the complexity of understanding chemical potential theory while fostering students’ ability to connect fundamental theories with advanced scientific applications. Compared with traditional teaching methods, the new model shows 48% improvement across three metrics: knowledge acquisition, learning interest, and value perception, providing insights for interdisciplinary teaching between organometallic chemistry and physical chemistry.

Key words: Physical chemistry, Metal-organic frameworks, Chemical potential, Teaching practice, Scientific spirit