Relativistic effects and the chemistry of the heavier main group elements

Abstract

This chapter reviews possible experimental aspects of relativistic effects in heavier Main Group elements and their compounds. Attention is focused on the sixth, seventh and eighth Period elements, for which the relativistic contribution to their physical and chemical properties is significant. Superheavy elements through Z = 120 are also discussed. This review may increase interest of theoreticians in chemistry-oriented problems that require use of relativistic methods of quantum chemistry.