Inorganic Chemistry
Overview
During the unit, students will study structural chemistry, the d-block elements, symmetry, the nature of inorganic materials, and receive an introduction to materials chemistry and inorganic characterisation techniques. This will broaden their expertise in the chemical sciences and prepare them for more advanced study in chemistry..
Requisites
02-November-2025
01-November-2026
Learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
- Critically evaluate complex concepts and principles in inorganic chemistry to design and justify solutions to unfamiliar chemical problems.
- Design novel applications for inorganic compounds/materials based on an advanced understanding of their chemical properties
- Critically assess potential risks in laboratory settings and articulate preventative strategies to mitigate hazards and ensure safe working conditions
- Design and implement a strategic analytical workflow to determine the composition and structure of unknown inorganic compounds/materials
- Integrate and synthesize laboratory findings to develop coherent, data-driven conclusions and defend interpretations related to inorganic structure
Teaching methods
Hawthorn
| Type | Hours per week | Number of weeks | Total (number of hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| On Campus Lecture |
2.00 | 10 weeks | 20 |
| On Campus Lab |
6.00 | 4 weeks | 24 |
| Unspecified Activities Independent Learning |
8.50 | 12 weeks | 102 |
| TOTAL | 146 |
Assessment
| Type | Task | Weighting | ULO's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Final Examination | Individual | 20 - 30% | 1,2 |
| Laboratory Practicals | Individual | 30 - 40% | 3,4,5 |
| Online Quizzes | Individual | 5 - 20% | 1,2 |
| Mid-Semester Test | Individual | 20 - 30% | 1,2 |
Hurdle
As the minimum requirements of assessment to pass a unit and meet all Unit Learning Outcomes to a minimum standard, a student must achieve:
(i) an aggregate mark of 50% or more, and
(ii) an average at least 40% across the tests and exams, and
(iii) completion a specific fraction of 80% laboratory work based on the criteria for successful completion as explained in the lab handout(s).
Students who do not successfully achieve hurdle requirements (ii) and (iii) will receive a maximum of 45% as the total mark for the unit.
Content
- Inorganic structural chemistry
- Symmetry and group theory
- Coordination chemistry
- Crystal field theory and ligand field theory
- Material characterisation techniques
- Applications of inorganic chemistry
Study resources
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required textbooks will be available in the Unit Outline on Canvas.