Chemistry 371 - Inorganic Chemistry

This course will discuss structure, bonding, and properties of transition metal-containing molecules and inorganic solids. Students will examine structure and bonding in transition metal complexes through molecular orbital and ligand field theories, with an emphasis on the magnetic, spectroscopic, and thermodynamic properties of transition metal complexes. The class will also examine reactions of transition metal complexes, including the unique chemistry of organometallic compounds. The laboratory experiments complement lecture material and include an independent project. Three hours of class, one hour of discussion and four hours of laboratory per week.

Requisite: CHEM 221 or consent of the instructor. Limited to 20 students.

Fall semester: Professor Durr.

How to handle overenrollment: Preference given to Amherst College chemistry majors, others by class year.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: An emphasis on quantitative work, in-class exams, engagement with primary scientific literature, group work, and laboratory work.