Kinetics & Thermodynamics
I. Kinetic Aspects
Syllabus outline
Introduction to reaction rate law and mechanism of steady state approximation. Type of reactions, Nucleophilic displacements, Effective collisions. Displacement in square planar complexes, Trans-effect, Displacement in octahedral complexes, Inert and labile complexes (VBT, CFT explanation), Inner and outer sphere exchange reactions.
Recommended books
While there is no mandatory text for this course, it is recommended that you have access to at least one of the following texts.
- Principles of Chemical Kinetics, 2nd edition (2007) by James E. House
- Kinetics and Mechanism of Reactions of Transition Metal Complexes, 2nd edition (2002) by Ralph G. Wilkins
- Coordination Chemistry (1986) by Fred Basolo, Ronald C. Johnson
Exams and grades
- Mid-term exam: 18%
- Final exam: 20%
- Assignments & class participation: 25%
- Part I. 37% (17 + 20)
Assignments
Here’s a list of assignments that may help you understand and apply basic concepts of kinetics and mechanisms of nucleophilic substitution reactions in metal complexes.
Topic: Steady State Approximation
Assignment 1. Two-step mechanisms and steady state approximation
Topic. Kinetic Lability and Inertness
Assignment 2. Crystal field activation energy for ligand substitution reactions
Sensors & Diagnostics Lab 