Chemistry of the Elements

The module introduces key concepts of inorganic chemistry such as periodicity and trends in atomic properties, bond models and molecular shapes, acid-base properties, and d-block co-ordination complexes. Students will gain a basic knowledge and understanding of the topic and develop their skills in analysing and interpreting information, problem solving, working safely and competently in a laboratory, keeping orderly records and drawing evidence based conclusions.

Practical sessions involve the use of qualitative spot tests for the identification of metals using simple inorganic reactions, and their use to characterise and identify unknown samples.