KEMA2140 Introduction to the Chemistry of Main Group Elements (4 cr)

• fundamentals of molecular symmetry
• theories of covalent bonding (valence bond theory and molecular orbital theory)
  
• basics of main group (groups 1, 2 and 13-19) chemistry

Subject knowledge.

After successfully completing the course, the student

• is able to determine molecular symmetry (point group) from its structure.
• knows how molecular symmetry is applied in chemistry and in the description of covalent bonding in particular.
• is familiar with fundamental theories of covalent bonding.
• is able to describe covalent bonding in molecules using qualitative valence bond theory and molecular orbital theory.
  
• acquires an overview of main group chemistry (common compounds, their synthesis and uses).

Working life skills.

After successfully completing the course, the student

• knows the properties and commercial use of common inorganic compounds.
• is able to propose explain the chemical behaviour and physical properties of common inorganic compounds.
• knows the basics of scientific thinking and reasoning.
  
• gains experience in problem solving and learning new topics and building background.
  

Recommended courses: KEMP1110 The World of Molecules, KEMP1120 Chemical Equilibrium and Energy, and KEMP1130 Basics in Inorganic Chemistry (or KEMP111, KEMP112, KEMP113 Basics in Chemistry 1, 2 and 3) or similar knowledge gained elsewhere.

• Weller, Mark; Overton, Tina, Rourke, Jonathan; Armstrong Fraser: Inorganic Chemistry, 7^th edition (ISBN-13: 9780198768128), Oxford University Press, 2018, parts of chapters 2, 6 and 10-18
• Connelly, Neil G.; Damhus, Ture; Hartshorn, Richard M.; Hutton, Alan T. (Eds.): Nomenclature of Inorganic Chemistry: IUPAC Recommendations 2005 (ISBN-13: 9780854044382), RSC Publishing, 2005, parts of chapters 1-9