Learning objectives
At the end of the course the student is able to know, understand and apply the essential concepts of the chemistry of coordination compounds, in particular as regards the metals of block d. The student will show: a good knowledge of the most common coordination numbers and associated geometries, understanding of the quantum mechanical basis for describing complexes, understanding the thermodynamic and kinetic basis of the chemistry of complexes.
The student will develop communication skills, ability to learn and make connections between the various topics; the student will be able to deal with the scientific literature about coordination chemistry, even in its application aspects.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of inorganic and organic chemistry
Course unit content
Introduction to the chemistry of coordination compounds (complexes). Werner's theory (primary and secondary valence in a metal ion). Nomenclature of coordination compounds. Ligands (denticity, coordination modes, cyclic ligands). Coordination number, coordination geometry. Isomerism and chirality in complexes. Hard and soft acids and bases (HSAB) theory.
The bond in the coordination compounds: outline of crystal field theory. Introduction to the theory of molecular orbitals (covalent model). Electronic and magnetic properties of the complexes. Jahn-Teller effect.
Thermodynamic aspects of the chemistry of coordination compounds. Selectivity of a ligand for a metal ion. Ionophores.
Kinetic aspects of the chemistry of coordination compounds, substitution reactions and trans effect. Redox reactions. Template reactions.
Coordination chemistry and bioinorganic chemistry. Chelation therapy for the removal of toxic metals or essential metals in abnormal concentrations. Ligands as inhibitors of the activity of a metalloenzyme. Metal complexes as drugs or supplements. Metal complexes in Radiodiagnostics and Radiotherapy. General characteristics of the coordination chemistry of lanthanides. "Antenna" effect. Metal complexes in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance imaging. Fluorescent probes (molecular probes).
Full programme
Introduction to the chemistry of coordination compounds (complexes). Werner's theory (primary and secondary valence in a metal ion). Nomenclature of coordination compounds. Ligands (denticity, coordination modes, cyclic ligands). Coordination number, coordination sphere, coordination geometry of a metal ion. Isomerism and chirality in complexes. Hard and soft acids and bases (HSAB) theory.
The bond in the coordination compounds: outline of crystal field theory (energy separation of d orbitals, octahedral, tetrahedral and square planar fields). Stabilization energy of the crystal field. Strong and weak fields, spectrochemical series, low and high spin complexes. Outline of the theory of molecular orbitals (covalent model). Electronic and magnetic properties of the complexes. Jahn-Teller effect.
Thermodynamic aspects of the chemistry of coordination compounds (formation constants, chelating effect, macrocyclic effect, Irving-Williams series). Selectivity of a ligand for a metal ion. Ionophores. Kinetic aspects of the chemistry of coordination compounds, substitution reactions and trans effect.
Template reactions. Redox reactions (internal sphere/external sphere mechanism).
Coordination chemistry and bioinorganic chemistry. Chelation therapy for the removal of toxic metals or essential metals in abnormal concentrations. Ligands as inhibitors of the activity of a metalloenzyme. Metal complexes as drugs or supplements. Metal complexes in Radiodiagnostics and Radiotherapy. General characteristics of the coordination chemistry of lanthanides. "Antenna" effect. Metal complexes in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance imaging. Fluorescent probes (molecular probes).
Bibliography
The slides used for the lectures are provided.
J.R. Gispert, Coordination Chemistry, Wiley
J.E. Huheey, E.A. Keiter, R.L. Keiter, Chimica Inorganica. Principi, strutture, reattività, Piccin
D.F. Shriver, P.W. Atkins, C.H. Langford, Chimica Inorganica, Zanichelli
F. Basolo, R. Johnson, Chimica dei composti di coordinazione, Zanichelli
Teaching methods
Frontal lessons in presence
Assessment methods and criteria
The achievement of knowledge and understanding of the course contents will be ascertained through an oral test.
If the health emergency makes it necessary, the exam will still be oral, but in remote mode.
Other information
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