610-142 Chemistry

Chemistry 610-141, 610-161 or 610-121. Students with a high level of achievement in 610-171 or 202-101 may be permitted to enrol in 610-142 upon successful completion of the chemistry 610-141 computer-aided learning modules during the winter recess.

On completion of 610-142 the student should have an understanding of the reactivity of organic molecules; the structure and bonding of inorganic molecules; the nature of the solid state; the structure and reactivity of metal compounds.

In the practical component students should develop basic laboratory skills (observation, analytical techniques, report writing); oral communication skills; independent learning skills; an appreciation of the health and safety issues associated with the safe handling and disposal of laboratory chemicals.

The subject provides an introduction to organic acids and bases; nucleophilic substitution reactions; elimination reactions; addition reactions; electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions; nucleophilic addition reactions; organic redox reactions; aspects of main group chemistry: structure and bonding in elements and compounds of groups 14-18; solutions and pH equilibria; intermolecular forces and extended solid state structures; redox reactions and electrochemistry; and transition metal and coordination chemistry.

A 3-hour written examination at the end of semester which represents 80% of the final assessment. Practical work is continuously assessed and short tests may be given during the semester. These together represent 20% of the final assessment. Practical work must be completed satisfactorily before credit can be granted for the subject.

• S Zumdahl, Chemical Principles. 3rd ed., D C Heath, 1997.
• J McMurry, Organic Chemistry. 5th ed., Brooks/Cole, 2000.