Coordination Chemistry of the Actinides

recognize +4 and +6 as the main oxidation states for uranium and +4 as the only important oxidation state for thorium; appreciate that coordination numbers of >6 are the norm; be familiar with the main features of the chemistry of the other actinides, and appreciate the transition in chemical behaviour across the series; appreciate the importance of nitrate complexes; recognize the characteristic structures of uranyl complexes; suggest structures for compounds; explain the separation of nuclear material and the recovery of U and Pu in terms of the chemistry involved; appreciate the problems presented in nuclear waste disposal and understand the solutions; suggest safe ways to handle actinide compounds.