This course is composed of two components:

A. Lecture:

Chemists generally define inorganic chemistry as a main pillar of the undergraduate chemistry curriculum, but what is inorganic chemistry? In this class, students will improve their understanding of atomic structure, periodic trends in the behavior of atoms, coordination chemistry, molecular orbital interactions, solid state chemistry, symmetry, nanochemistry, materials chemistry, and descriptive main group chemistry. Other topics include: atomic and molecular structures, bonding theories, redox chemistry, and acid-base theories. Students will additionally gain exposure to chemical literature and reading and writing scientific publications and presenting and disseminating scientific research.

B. Laboratory:

In the laboratory, students will experiment with various inorganic syntheses and analysis. Many of these experiments will be viewed and taught through the prism of experience of Dr. Girard as a materials nanochemist. Students will gain experience in preparing and analyzing various inorganic compounds, and understanding their applications. Students will be expected to demonstrate proper preparative, manipulative, observation, and related computation skills as well as to develop an understanding of the fundamental principles and techniques upon which laboratory experimentation is based. Much emphasis will be placed on the proper keeping of a professional-quality research laboratory notebook, as well as high-quality scientific writing.