Reactivity in Inorganic Chemistry (F1202)
Reactivity in Inorganic Chemistry
Module F1202
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 6
Module Outline
This module will build on your core knowledge of the main group and transition elements and will introduce you to the lanthanide and actinides. This course will explore unusual oxidation states in main group chemistry and their reactivity together with multiple bonds between heavy p-block elements. Additionally, we will describe reaction mechanisms in coordination chemistry, including kinetic aspects of ligand substitution, optical activity and the mechanisms of (photo)redox reactions. The module will explore fundamental aspects of lanthanide and actinide chemistry coordination chemistry and its applications in areas such as magnetic resonance imaging, luminescence and nuclear fuel cycles.
Module learning outcomes
Identify common and unusual oxidation states in main group chemistry, appreciating the role of thermodynamic and kinetic factors that determine their stability, bonding and reactivity.
Apply descriptions of d-electron configuration and electronic ground state to aspects of chemical reactivity, such as ligand substitution, redox processes, inner- and outer-sphere electron transfer reactions in terms of Marcus theory, and photochemical redox.
Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the fundamental features of lanthanide and actinide chemistry, including bonding, electronic structure, f orbitals, the lanthanide contraction, common and exotic oxidation states, coordination and organometallic chemistry and their applications.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Unseen Examination | Semester 1 Assessment | 70.00% |
| Coursework | 30.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Essay | T1 Week 5 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 22222222222 |
| Autumn Semester | Workshop | 1 hour | 01010101010 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Joe Paul-Taylor
Assess convenor, Convenor
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Prof Richard Layfield
Assess convenor
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