The first f-block elements were discovered in the 18th and 19th centuries, since the advent of the cyclotron many more of them have been isolated. The applications of these elements range from smoke detectors to catalytic converters and they are used widely in industry, for example, in the refining of oil and the manufacture of glass and ceramics.;This systematic introduction to the chemistry of the lanthanide and actinide elements illustrates the main features of f-block chemistry and the important applications of the elements and their compounds. Details and references from research are included. Aimed at advanced undergraduate students learning about this area of inorganic chemistry, this book provides a detailed introduction to the topic. The book should also act as a useful reader for first year postgraduate students and researchers, particularly those from a non-inorganic chemistry background, requiring an overview of the area.

The renowned Oxford Chemistry Primers series, which provides focused introductions to a range of important topics in chemistry, has been refreshed and updated to suit the needs of today's students, lecturers, and postgraduate researchers. The rigorous, yet accessible, treatment of each subject area is ideal for those wanting a primer in a given topic to prepare them for more advanced study or research. Moreover, cutting-edge examples and applications throughout the texts show the relevance of the chemistry being described to current research and industry. The learning features provided, including questions at the end of every chapter and online multiple-choice questions, encourage active learning and promote understanding. Furthermore, frequent diagrams, margin notes, further reading, and glossary definitions all help to enhance a student's understanding of these essential areas of chemistry. f-Block Chemistry presents the most important underlying themes of f-element chemistry, illustrating these themes with carefully chosen examples. Online resources: The online resources that accompany f-Block Chemistry feature: For students: - Multiple-choice questions for self-directed learning - Additional 'Deeper Look' content For registered adopters of the text: - Figures from the book available to download