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Department of Chemistry, Unit Catalogue 2007/08


CH40127 Topics in inorganic chemistry

Credits: 6
Level: Masters
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX 100%
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take CH20013 and take CH20015 and take CH20095 or suitable courses from another university. In taking this unit you cannot take P-block chemistry as a component of CH30061.

Aims:
To introduce the principles of the chemistry of the heavy transition metals, the lanthanides and actinides and selected topics in P-block chemistry, with emphasis on the elements of Groups 13 - 15.
Learning Outcomes:
After studying the Unit, students should be able to:
* explain the systematic trends across the d-block elements.
* contrast the differences down individual d-block triads.
* rationalise the chemistry of lanthanide and actinide compounds in terms of oxidation state and coordination number.
* devise synthetic methods for the preparation of functionalised organometallic compounds of Group 13 -15 elements.
* understand how spectroscopic methods can help in structure determination and predict structures of these compounds.
* understand the role of steric and electronic factors in stabilising unusual bonding modes.
* describe the role of metal-organic compounds in the electronics industry.
* Critically evaluate publications from the recent literatire to illustrate the course themes.
* Demonstrate knowledge of selected recent developments in physical chemistry.
Skills:
Problem solving (T, F, A); Scientific writing (F, A); Independent working (F); Group working (F).
Content:
A description of the chemistry of the second and third row d-block elements. The contrast between the chemistry of these heavier d-block elements with those of the first row. Selected chemistry of a d-block triad. A description of the chemistry of the lanthanide and actinide elements. A comparison of this chemistry with that of s, p and d-block elements. Magnetic and spectroscopic properties of the complexes of these elements.Synthesis and reactivity of main group organometallics. Trends in structure and bonding; application of spectroscopic methods (NMR, Mssbauer). Low oxidation State Compounds. Catenation and Inorganic Polymers. Multiple Bonding Between Main Group Elements; aromaticity. Main Group Chemistry and the Electronics Industry; MOCVD.