Chapter 1: Introduction to Inorganic Chemistry
- Page ID
- 440760
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This chapter will introduce the breadth of the field of inorganic chemistry
- Identify different subfields of inorganic chemistry
- Recognize the historical and modern distinction between the fields of inorganic and organic chemistry
- Section 1.1: What is Inorganic Chemistry?
- A generally-accepted definition of inorganic chemistry is the study of non-carbon molecules, or all the elements on the periodic table except carbon. But, this definition is not completely correct because the field of inorganic chemistry also includes organometallic compounds and the study of some carbon-based molecules that have metal-like properties.
- Section 1.2: Inorganic vs Organic Chemistry
- The division between the fields of Inorganic and Organic chemistry has become blurred. For example, let's look at one of the major classes of catalysts used for organic synthesis reactions; organometalic catalysts. Organometallic catalysts like these, and all organometallic compounds, contain metals that are bonded to carbon or carbon-containing molecules. So, are they "inorganic" because they contain metals, or "organic" because they contain carbon?
- Section 1.3: History of Inorganic Chemistry
- The study and use of metals and inorganic compounds long predates the modern field of inorganic chemistry.