Form 20
Module Title
Module
Co-ordinator
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Organometallic Chemistry & Multinuclear NMR
Spectroscopy
Dr J.H. Cameron
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
SCQF
Level
9
Module
Code
1. Pre-requisites
Minimum D grade in Stage 2 core Chemistry modules, or the equivalent
2. Linked Modules
(specify if synoptic)
3. Excluded Modules
Chemical Structure (synoptic)
4. Replacement Module
Code:
6. Degrees for which this
is a core module
7. Aims
Date Of Replacement:
All chemistry degrees
5.
B19IC
Availability as an
Elective
Semester
Yes

1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
No
The module aims to:

Introduce the elementary concepts of organometallic chemistry, including synthesis, structure, bonding and reactivity of relevant species

Describe how these fundamental ideas may be applied to the development of homogeneous catalysts

Describe the background to selected homogeneously catalysed processes

Extend the skill base of students in practical aspects of multinuclear nmr spectroscopy in analysis of Inorganic compounds
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Form 20
Module Title
Module
Co-ordinator
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Organometallic Chemistry & Multinuclear NMR
Spectroscopy
Dr J.H. Cameron
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
SCQF
Level
9
Module
Code
B19IC
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
8. Syllabus


Ligand classification; X/L notation, electron counting; Common Organometallic Ligands; 18e- Rule - rationalisation, scope and limitations
Carbonyl Complexes and Related Species: Transition metals carbonyls: Synthesis, structure and bonding, reactivity; Phosphine ligands: Bonding, electronic and
steric effects
 Alkyl Complexes and Related Species: Transition metal alkyls: Stability, synthesis and reactivity. Related species: Transition metal aryls, acyls and alkenyls.
Transition metal alkylidenes and alkylidynes - synthesis
 Complexes with -Ligands: Transition metal alkene and alkyne complexes: Structures and bonding, synthesis and reactivity. Bonding in C 3 to C6 -ligands.
 Cyclopentadieneyl and Arene Complexes: Cp complexes: Structures, synthesis and reactivity. -Arene complexes: Structures, synthesis and reactivity. Practical
considerations: Experimental techniques and characterisation.
 Fundamental Organometallic Reactions: - Ligand Substitution; Oxidative Addition/Reductive Elimination; Migration/Transfer Reactions; Reactions of Coordinated
Ligands
 Catalytic Processes: Homogeneous Catalysis: A selection of the following topics will be covered: Hydrogenation; Hydroformylation; Monsanto Acetic Acid Process;
Wacker Process; Alkene Polymerisation; Pd-mediated organic synthesis (e.g. Stille, Heck)
 Practical aspects of NMR spectroscopy
 Magnetic equivalence and non-equivalence ; spin-lattice and spin-spin relaxation and their consequences for the spectrum
 Multinuclear NMR spectroscopy as applied to inorganic and organometallic chemistry
 Applications of 2D NMR techniques in structure solution
9. Learning Outcomes (HWU Core Skills: Employability and Professional Career Readiness)
Subject Mastery
Understanding, Knowledge and Cognitive Skills
Scholarship, Enquiry and Research (Research-Informed Learning)
On completion of the module, the learner should be able to:
 classify the range of ligands prevalent in organometallic chemistry and apply this to electron counting rules governing their
complexes with the transition metals
 apply the 18e and 16e counting rules and to understand simple ideas underpinning these rules
 demonstrate a knowledge of the structures, bonding and reactivity of a range of typical organometallic complexes featuring
carbonyl, phosphine, alkyl and linear and cyclic -ligands.
 demonstrate a knowledge of typical reactions of organometallic complexes
 demonstrate a knowledge, including the mechanisms, of a range of catalytic homogeneous catalytic processes of importance in
industry and synthetic organic chemistry
 demonstrate a broad and integrated knowledge multinuclear nmr spectroscopy at an appropriate level
 use a sound background knowledge of nmr spectroscopy to analyse and interpret the spectra of compounds exhibiting a range of
spin-spin systems
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Form 20
Module Title
Module
Co-ordinator
Version 3.0 (2007/2008)
Heriot-Watt University - Module Descriptor Template (RAY)
Organometallic Chemistry & Multinuclear NMR
Spectroscopy
Dr J.H. Cameron
School
Engineering and Physical Sciences
SCQF
Level
9
Module
Code
B19IC
Semester
1
On or OffCampus
Credits
On
15
Personal Abilities
Industrial, Commercial & Professional Practice
Autonomy, Accountability & Working with Others Communication, Numeracy & ICT
Personal abilities are embedded in the module. The module provides the opportunity to :
 Demonstrate problem-solving skills and the ability to critically evaluate ideas and information
 Use and evaluate information from a range of sources
 Present information using a range of IT applications
 Manage time effectively, work to deadlines and prioritise workloads
 Communicate complex ideas and information effectively to a group of peers
 Use ICT skills with on-line materials, assessments (formative and summative) and web links to support the learning process
 Apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge
 Practise the use of standard methods in the solution of routine chemical problems within familiar contexts
 Exercise some initiative and independence in carrying out defined activities
 Work with groups of peers to discuss chemical problems and identify solutions
10. Assessment Methods
11. Re-assessment Methods
Method
Duration of Exam
Weighting (%)
Synoptic modules?
Method
Duration of Exam
(if applicable)
Synoptic Examination
Class test
Continuous Assessment
Laboratory Work
12. Date and Version
Date of Proposal
27 August, 2007
3h
2h
Date of Approval by
School Committee
(if applicable)
50%
15%
15%
20%
B19ID
Synoptic Examination (100%)
Date of
Implementation
15 September, 2008
3h
Version
Number
1.0
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