CHEM 241

CHEM 241 (Introduction to Inorganic Chemistry) deals with the chemistry of main-group elements including a survey of the structure, bonding, and reactivity of their compounds. Transition-metal chemistry will be introduced. The course will include applications in industrial, biochemical, environmental, and materials science.

The laboratory component of CHEM 241 will feature representative experiments to illustrate and augment some of the topics discussed in lecture. The laboratory's primary goal will be to introduce the student to some of the common synthetic techniques and equipment found in inorganic chemistry laboratories, and to build an understanding of fundamental issues such as professional lab practices and the keeping of a proper laboratory notebook.

See Beartracks for registration and timing details. Questions about prerequisites or registration? Email undergrad@chem.ualberta.ca.

Current students should see Canvas for specific course details.

Prerequisites

CHEM 102 or 105 and CHEM 261.

Questions about prerequisites or registration? Email undergrad@chem.ualberta.ca.

Fundamental Learning Objectives

Students will have the opportunity to become proficient in the following areas:

understanding and application of benchtop preparative techniques (i.e., deeper understanding and extension of synthetic lab skills learned primarily in introductory organic chemistry, including introduction to environmentally-conscious technologies to minimize water consumption in the laboratory);
understanding and application of basic inert atmosphere techniques, including operation of a nitrogen/vacuum double manifold (Schlenk Line) (i.e., specialized techniques used to handle chemicals which are reactive towards water and/or oxygen, including work with cryogens);
steps necessary to prepare for laboratory work of increasing complexity;
basic professional laboratory practices (i.e., good habits expected of workers in any laboratory environment);
development of independence and confidence in lab work (i.e., being able to work safely and productively with minimal direction);
fundamentals of keeping a proper laboratory notebook;
IR and UV-visible spectroscopic analysis of inorganic compounds;
critical thinking applied to problems in inorganic chemistry;
authorship of mature laboratory reports in a specified format.