Physical and chemical properties of the main group elements and inorganic compounds are related to their electronic structures; principles are exemplified by technologically important substances and reactions. Topics include symmetry, covalent and ionic bonding theories, a survey of solid state structures and a discussion of secondary chemical interactions. The laboratory will emphasize the preparation of various main group inorganic compounds by important techniques (including vacuum and inert atmosphere synthesis) and product characterization by standard spectroscopic methods.