Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

A general description of the synthetic methods and characterization techniques that are used to prepare coordination complexes and organometallic compounds will be provided together with the tools and methodologies used in the determination of reaction mechanisms and, in particular, metal centred/mediated reactions. Techniques commonly used to study the structure and properties of inorganic complexes will be introduced through the practical classes and a problem based approach.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will have gained a broad overview of a range of modern inorganic synthetic methods and gained an understanding of the application of main group organometallic reagents to synthesis as well as their selectivity in reactions with different classes of functional groups. They will have furthered their appreciation of coordination complexes, especially those which mimic the action of naturally occurring biomolecules, and gained an understanding of bonding in inorganic compounds. Students will also gain an understanding of reaction mechanisms and, in particular, metal centred reactions; how coordination to a metal centre can enhance the reactivity of organic molecules; and how basic knowledge of reaction mechanisms can be used to study more complex biological and environmental systems. Students will also have developed skills in various instrumental techniques that are used to probe the structure and properties of metal complexes; in problem solving through exercises on reaction mechanisms and structure elucidation; gained generic practical skills; and enhanced their report writing skills.

Assessment

One 2-hour examination: 50%
One mid-semester examination: 20%
Laboratory work and short laboratory reports and proforma reports: 30%
Students must achieve a pass mark in their laboratory work to achieve an overall pass grade.

Chief examiner(s)

Dr David Lupton

Contact hours

Three 1-hour lectures/tutorials and the equivalent of 3 hours of laboratory activity per week

Prerequisites

CHM2911 and CHM2922. Students without these should consult the third year coordinator.