The module starts off with solid state chemistry (by Dr Foo), so your crystal packing, holes and ratios, defects, band theory of metals, lattice energy, etc. Next is coordination chemistry (by Prof Ang), going from nomenclature, equilibria, isomers, chirality, electron counting, VB theory, CFT, CFSE, MO theory, LFT, Metal-CO bonds, phosphines, TEP, TCA, review of HSAB theory, ligand substitution, electron transfer, oxidative addition, reductive elimination. Second part (after recess week) is symmetry and spectroscopy (by Prof Yip), starting with symmetry elements, point groups, and character tables, to infrared, UV-Vis spectroscopy, d-d transitions, and MLCT, LMCT.
There are plenty of old concepts reviewed in the module, as well as some new concepts. Most of the concepts and things taught can be absorbed fairly easily and there are not a lot of mental gymnastics to be done in the module. The most important parts/concepts are basically listed above.
One of the larger part of the module involves a lot of spatial thinking. For the isomerism and symmetry elements, you do need enough practice to be able to get the answer. Most students are able to get it in the end, as observed by the ridiculously high scores of everybody in the test.
You probably don’t have a choice to take the module, but there isn’t too much to worry about. You should worry more about CM2121 instead. If you’re considering taking this as an elective, I think it’s doable if you’re interested in the topic, but it may get competitive and the bell curve may not help you.
Click HERE if you need help with assignments, essays, reports etc.
Click HERE to obtain full access to CHEAP online courses.
Click HERE to get access to popular lifetime subscriptions.
Click HERE to get university module notes and packages.
Click HERE to get A Level material, papers, notes & guides.
Click HERE to get O/N Level PYP, notes & guides.
Click HERE to get PSLE & Pri 1-6 prelim exams, papers & answers.
