This module explores the properties of modern and established inorganic materials and compounds. The emphasis is on the applications of these properties in energy production, potential catalysts and solid state devices.
A selection of the following topics or part thereof will be covered each year:
Transition metal chemistry
The periodic trends in the d-block and f-block transition series is explored. and compared. The chemistry of manganese and chromium is used to exemplify d electron chemistry. Triad variations. Metal-metal bonding
Nuclear Chemistry
Magnetic dipoles and NMR activity and its use in inorganic chemistry. The chemistry of the nucleus. Of radioactive nuclei. Nuclear stability and radioactivity. The decay series, nuclear energy cycle, nuclear fuels, nuclear waste recycling. The industrial applications of radioactive materials.
Solid State Inorganic Chemistry:- metal alloys and ionic inorganic solids
General Characteristics of Solid State: Amorphous and Crystalline Solids. Classification of Crystalline Solids. Review the structures of simple binary compounds; the bonding in solids and phase diagrams. Detailed study of more complex structures such as perovskite and spinel structures.
Defects in Crystals: Stoichiometric (lattice defects )and non-stoichiometric defects, and non-stoichiometric compounds, properties arising from defects.
Correlation between bonding and the properties of solids. Bonding in metals and semiconductors.
Electronic structure and related properties such as electronic conduction.
Magnetic solids characteristics, classification and properties
Optical aspects of solids such as electromagnetic spectrum, colour and appearance.
Main Group Chemistry
The p-block’ trends and properties of selected elements and /or groups
Practical Inorganic Chemistry Five three hour laboratory sessions will be completed.
Laboratory work is sourced from the School of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory manual.
The module is delivered through a series of lectures (20 hours), tutorials (4 hours), laboratory practical classes (15 hours) and self-directed study (61 hours).
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 75 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 25 |