This course introduces students to the ligand-field model and its applications in understanding the electronic (UV/Vis) spectra and magnetism of transition metal complexes. The course also involves a basic introduction to computational chemistry with the emphasis on molecular-orbital calculations.

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with later year undergraduate students but have separate tutorials and are assessed separately.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. determine the electronic states of transition metal ions using Russell-Saunders coupling
2. describe the ligand-field model and its applications in understanding the electronic spectra and magnetism of transition metal complexes
3. understand the basic concepts, terminology and theory used in ab initio molecular-orbital methods and the different types of calculations

Assessment will be based on:

• Assignment (50%; LO 1, 2)
• End-of-semester exam (50%; LO 3)

32 hours of lectures/tutorials plus a further 32 hours of independent learning

Students must have a Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent with a major in chemistry with relevant experience or honours. Applicants with the equivalent of a pass degree may be admitted if they have a high level of relevant academic achievement.  The course is compulsory for all students enrolled in the Master of Chemistry.

Incompatible with CHEM3023 or related course in an undergraduate program

Schriver and Atkins' Inorganic Chemistry by Atkins, Overton, Rourke, Weller and Armstrong