610-340 Inorganic Chemistry IIIA

Credit cannot be gained for both this subject and 610-341 or 610-345.

Chemistry 610-240 or 610-241 and 610-245.

Upon completion of this subject, students should comprehend the main types of reactions of coordination compounds, cluster molecules, organometallic species and biomolecules; understand the reasons for the different types of structures observed for such molecules; have developed a knowledge of the procedures for determination of the structures via spectroscopic and related techniques, and be able to identify the mechanisms of the more important reactions and evaluate the effect that this has on the chemistry. In addition, students should have an appreciation of the electronic structure and photochemistry of metal complexes; the structure of the solid state; and apply concepts developed in relation to small molecule chemistry to catalysis in biological and non-biological systems.

The practical course will consist of a number of experiments involving the synthesis and/or chemical and/or instrumental investigations of important classes of main group and transition metal coordination and organometallic compounds.

This subject will provide the student with the opportunity to establish/develop the following generic skills: an advanced understanding of the changing knowledge base, problem-solving and critical thinking skills, an ability to evaluate the research and professional literature, a capacity to apply concepts developed in one area to a different context, and the ability to use conceptual models to rationalise observations, a capacity to articulate knowledge and understanding in written presentations, a capacity to manage competing demands on time, including self-directed work.

Ongoing assessment of practical work in the form of short reports due during the semester (25%); written assignments not exceeding six pages due during the semester (10%); a 3-hour written examination in the examination period on theory and practical components (65%). This examination will comprise a 2-hour section on theory (57% of total subject assessment) and a 1-hour multiple choice section on the practical work (8% of total subject assessment). Satisfactory completion of both theory and practical work is necessary to pass the subject.