Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this module, you will be able to confidently convey the following content in written and verbal form using equations and diagrams to further illustrate these concepts:
- Identify, distinguish and illustrate covalent, metallic, and ionic bonding and hybridisation
- Predict the geometry of complexes, assign oxidation states and balance redox equations in acidic and basic conditions
- Describe the basic concepts of the electrochemical cell, such as half-reactions and cell potential
- Classify solid-state structures, describe cubic (ccp) and hexagonal close packing (hcp) and simple cubic, body-centred cubic and face-centred cubic structures and coordination numbers.
- Describe trends in the periodic table and the classification of elements as metallic, metalloid or non-metallic
- Discuss how elements are found in nature, how they are extracted and their practical applications
Indicative Module Content:
Part I: Electronic theory of chemistry [7 lectures plus 1 workshop]
Initial lectures will cover atomic theory, atomic orbitals (s, p, d) as wavefunctions, quantum numbers, and orbital hybridisation. We then consider these principles in the context of molecular geometry, VSEPR theory and molecular orbital theory of diatomic molecules. We examine the concept of electronegativity and bond polarity, before considering oxidation states. We build up on this to further consider redox reactions, before applying this to systems such as electrochemical cells.
Part II: Introduction to structural and solid state chemistry [7 lectures plus 1 workshop]
Here, we begin with the basics of the solid state, considering crystalline solid classification. We consider what is meant by a crystal and the concept of a lattice. We explore the unit cell and how we may build up common cubic and hexagonal structures. Our goal is to build our understanding of why materials adopt different crystal structures. Finally, we consider radius ratio rules and lattice energies.
Part III: Chemistry of the main group elements [7 lectures plus 1 workshop]
Our final part of the course takes a journey through the periodic table, where we focus on s and p-block (d-block will be covered in detail in our sister course CHEM20400, and these courses form the basis for deeper enquiry in 3rd and 4th year). We begin with hydrogen and its compounds, before exploring the extraction of group and group 2 metals. This also provides us an opportunity to revisit the more practical applications of electrochemical cells, covered in Part I of the course. Subsequent lectures take a similar systematic approach to considering groups 13-18. We consider diagonal relationships and trends in properties in the periodic table.
These three topics are complemented by a set laboratory skills practical classes, where you will put into practice the fundamental and underpinning concepts we cover in class together.