module specification

This module covers the inorganic chemistry of d- and f-block elements. The focus is on their coordination chemistry, solution chemistry and their applications. Introduction of organometallic chemistry and solid state chemistry are also included. Lectures will be reinforced by practical exercises.

CH4005

The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.

The module aims to develop an understanding of the relationships between structure, bonding and reactivity of metal compounds and complexes in d- and f- block. The knowledge gained will give students an understanding of the role of metals and metal compounds in disease, its cause, diagnosis and treatment. The practical aspects of the module will enable students to acquire skills and experience of preparative, analytical and instrumental methods which are essential to inorganic chemistry.

Key concepts of coordination chemistry in d-block.
Solution chemistry and selectivity of metal complexation.
Applications of selectivity of complexation, the origins of metal-ion recognition and discrimination. 
Some descriptive chemistry of the 2nd/3rd row transition metals, focussing on groups 6 and 10.
Introduction to organometallic chemistry.
The f-block chemistry and applications.
Mechanisms of transition metal reactions.
Nuclear chemistry and medicine.
Introductory solid state chemistry.
The concept of dimensionality and structures of simple inorganic solids.
X-ray diffraction and Bragg’s Law. Indexing simple X-ray diffraction patterns (P, FCC, BCC).

Acquisition of knowledge of the subject matter of this module will be promoted through lecturer-led lectures  and tutorials; directed web-based learning and through the guided use of student-centred learning resources. Practical classes  and tutorials will be used to consolidate the student with guidance for directed activities. Self-managed time and private study  should be spread out over the whole year and not left until the final weeks.

Practical work consists of a mini project, carried out as part of a small team, to find solutions to a series of set questions focusing on the relationship between the structure and properties of transition metal complexes.  Other practical work includes synthesis of transition metal complexes, organometallic compounds and structure determination using X-ray diffraction. Students will be expected to process and interpret results obtained from experimental sessions . 

The module is supported by a website on WebLearn which icludes a number of electronic learning aids. Students would be expected to use the site for assisted study.  Profiling will be delivered via an on-line site. Students will use the study weeks to reflect on practical experience and research material for poster presentation or reports .

Following completion of this module, students should be able to:

1. Rationalise important aspects of the coordination and solution chemistry of the d- and f- block elements in terms of position in the periodic table and bonding theories;
2. Use selected synthetic, analytical and separation techniques safely and effectively, demonstrating awareness of the environmental impact of waste chemicals and their correct disposal;
3. Describe the dependence of the structures of ionic compounds and metals on atomic properties;
4. Use X-ray diffraction data to deduce structural information;
5. Discuss mechanistic implications from kinetic studies of substitution reactions of octahedral and square planar complexes;
6. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of metal containing compounds in medicine;
7. Describe fundamentals of nuclear chemistry and apply them to radiopharmacy.

This module will be assessed by a time-constrained progress test (20%), a poster (20%), one practical report (20%), a practical quiz (10%) and an examination (30%). The progress test, poster, quiz and practical reports will provide both formative and summative assessment, the examination summative assessment alone.

The progress test (20%) will assess the students’ knowledge of coordination and solution chemistry of d-block

A poster (20%), one practical report (20%) and quiz (10%) will be used to assess the students’ practical skills, ability to acquire, manipulate and interpret experimental data, and to communicate the findings in a poster and an appropriate scientific report.

An end-of-module examination (30%) will assess the students’ knowledge of lectures in d- and f-block chemistry, reaction mechanisms and solid state chemistry.

To pass the module students must achieve a minimum aggregate mark of 40%. There will be an attendance requirement for the practical sessions. If the module is passed on reassessment, then the maximum mark awarded will be 40%.

Atkins, P., Overton, T., Rourke, J., Weller, M. and Armstrong, F. (2009)Inorganic Chemistry.Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Bertini, I., Gray, H. B., Stiefel, E. I. & Valentine, J. S. (2007)Biological inorganic chemistry: structure and reactivity.US: University Science Books.
Burrows, A., Parsons, A., Price, G., Pilling, G. & Holman, J. (2009)Chemistry³: Introducing inorganic, organic and physical chemistry.Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Huheey, J. E., Keiter, E. A. & Keiter, R. L. (1997)Inorganic Chemistry: Principles of Structure and Reactivity. 4th Ed.New York: HarperCollins College.
Miessler, G. L. & Tarr, D. A. (2010)Inorganic Chemistry. 4thEd. New York: Prentice Hall.
Smart, L. E. & Moore, E. A. (2005)Solid state chemistry: An introduction. London: Taylor Francis Group.
West, A. R. (2000)Basic Solid State Chemistry.London: John Wiley & Sons.
Wilkins, P. C. & Wilkins, R. G. (1997) Inorganic Chemistry in Biology (Oxford Chemistry Primers).Oxford: Oxford University Press.