The chemistry of the main group elements is presented in terms of atomic structure, ionic and covalent bonding.
Structural theory involving s, p, and unfilled d orbitals is described.
Thermodynamic and spectroscopic criteria for structure and stability of compounds are presented and chemical reactions of main group elements discussed in terms of molecular structure and reactivity. 141A or equivalent course is recommended. Coordination chemistry is discussed in terms of valence bond, crystal field, and molecular orbital theory. The properties and reactivities of transition metal complexes including organometallic compounds are discussed. Stresses physical methods including separation and purification, spectroscopy, product analysis and effects of reaction conditions.