Organic Chemistry (PM230)

This course is a systematic introduction to the chemistry of carbon compounds. It encompasses theory and reactions of hydrocarbons and functional group derivatives. Included are bonding and structure, nomenclature, stereochemistry, synthesis, mechanism, and spectroscopic analysis. The laboratory work focuses on techniques of synthesis, isolation, purification, and analysis.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Name, and draw structures from names, compounds of the following functional groups: alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, halides, alcohols, ethers, amines, and compounds containing more than one of these functional groups using IUPAC rules.
2. Draw Lewis structural formulas, Kekule structural formulas, skeletal structural formulas, perspective structural formulas, Newman projection formulas and Fisher projection formulas for organic compounds.
3. Identify relationships among structures that are constitutional isomers, stereoisomers, and/or conformational isomers.
4. Evaluate the relative stabilities of various conformations of cyclic and acyclic organic molecules.
5. Recognize the presence of chiral features in molecules and evaluate optical activity. Designate the relative configuration of a stereocenter as R or S.
6. Identify cis and trans isomers. Designate the configuration of a double bond as E or Z.
7. Compare the physical properties of compounds listed in number
8. Predict the products of reactions of compounds belonging to the various functional groups described in this course (see course content).
9. Write the mechanisms for the reactions in the above objective.
10. Deduce reaction mechanisms from experimental evidence.
11. Use curved arrow notation to show electron movement in the steps of a reaction mechanism