Inorganic Chemistry
Full course description
This survey course will introduce the students to the world of chemistry beyond carbon. As an introductory course it will focus on the principles of bonding and interaction between atoms, both of the main group and the d-block elements. A review of VSEPR and VB theory and molecular orbital theory (MO), crystal field theory (CFT); Molecular symmetry and a quick overview of some possible applications; A comprehensive overview of coordination chemistry: nomenclature, coordination number and geometry, oxidation states, d-electron counting and the 18-VE rule; Organometallic chemistry: history, alkyl, aryl, alkene, carbene and carbyne complexes. An introduction to nanoparticles, some paths of synthesis and applications.
Course objectives
- To introduce the student to the general principles of inorganic chemistry. To provide an understanding of the basic bonding relationships amongst atoms in inorganic compounds;
- To introduce the student to d-block chemistry (coordination chemistry);
- To introduce students to the basic ideas in organometallic chemistry;
- To provide a rigorous theoretical basis of the experimental analysis of the above compound, especially in terms of symmetry-analysis of Raman/IR activity;
- To provide the basis for the further studies of inorganic chemistry.
Prerequisites
- None
Co-requisites
- PRA2004
Recommended
- CHE2001 Organic Chemistry (strongly)
- PRA2002 Chemical Synthesis
Corequisites
Recommended reading
To be determined amongst:
- Shriver and Atkins: Inorganic Chemistry (Oxford);
- Huheey, Keiter, Keiter: Inorganic Chemistry (Harper Collins);
- Wulfsberg: Inorganic Chemistry (University Science Books).