Organic Chemistry
Recent Articles
Metal-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions
Core Concepts In this article, you will learn about the importance of metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions, their mechanisms, and classic examples used in organic chemistry. Introduction Cross-coupling reactions are a cornerstone of organic chemistry. They help in the formation of carbon-carbon
Sulfur in the Spotlight: Organosulfur Compounds
Core Concepts In this article, you will gain an overview of organosulfur compounds, their diverse structures, and their unique behaviors. You will also explore the many applications of organosulfur compounds, which are essential to modern science, various industries, and everyday
From Simple Building Blocks to Complex Hormones: A Convergent Synthesis Route to Progesterone
Progesterone is a heroic hormone with a huge impact on our health. It’s essential to certain functions, so how do we synthesize it?
Photochemistry
Core Concepts Photochemistry is the study of chemical reactions, processes, and mechanisms initiated by light. This article explores the fundamentals of photochemistry, its applications, and the significance it holds in both nature and technology. Basics of Photochemistry When a molecule
Wurtz Reaction
Core Concepts This article will explore the Wurtz reaction, covering its mechanism, limitations, and the conditions required for the reaction to take place. Introduction The Wurtz reaction is a chemical reaction where two alkyl halides react with sodium metal in
Aspirin Synthesis
Core Concepts In this article, we will discuss the steps in synthesizing Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), its applications, and its reaction mechanism. Introduction Bayer chemist Felix Hoffmann synthesized aspirin for the first time in 1897. Originally an antipyretic and anti-inflammatory drug, aspirin became crucial
Structure
Organic Acids and Bases
Core Concepts This article will describe organic acids, organic bases, and how to differentiate their strength. Organic Acids Organic acids are molecules that contain carbon and can donate a proton. The general formula is as follows: HA (aq) + H2O
Inductive Effect
Core Concepts This article will explain a phenomenon in organic chemistry known as the inductive effect. This concept plays a significant role in determining the reactivity and stability of different molecules and compounds. After reading this article, you will be
Strain in Organic Chemistry
Core Concepts Strain is an important concept in organic chemistry, often the most important factor in determining molecular structure. In this article, we explore the different types of strain and how each affects structure and molecular energy. Topics Covered on
Line Structures
Core Concepts In this article, we will discuss line structures and their applications in organic chemistry. Topics Covered in Other Articles Introduction to Line Structures In chemistry, there are multiple ways to represent the composition and/or structure of a compound
Arrow Pushing
Core Concepts In this article, we will explore common forms of arrow pushing that are seen in organic chemistry, both intermolecular and intramolecular. We will also consider its uses and importance. Related Articles Arrow Pushing Basics Arrow pushing is the
Alkene Carbocation Stability
Core Concepts In this article, we will explore the stability of carbocations in alkenes via substitution and rearrangement, including stabilizing factors such as resonance. Topics Covered in Other Articles Definitions Substitution and Stability The number of carbon substituents attached to
Functional Groups
The Thiol Functional Group
Core Concepts The thiol functional group belongs to a class of organic functional groups that contain sulfur. This article will cover the structure and properties of thiols, as well as the reactions they are a part of. Topics Covered in
Alkanes: Formulas, Structures, and Reactions
In this tutorial, you will learn about the structure, isomerism, nomenclature, and reactions of alkane!
Carboxylic Acid Functional Group
The carboxylic acid is a common functional group in many organic molecules and biomolecules. This article describes the basics of the carboxylic acid functional group, as well as some of its reactions and chemical effect.
What are Hydrocarbons? Formulas & Examples
Core Concepts In this tutorial, you will learn about hydrocarbons, their structures, and the organic chemistry reactions that relate to them. What is a Hydrocarbon? A hydrocarbon is a type of chemical compound that contains only carbon and hydrogen atoms.
Acid Chloride Functional Group
Core Concepts This article serves as a guide to the acid chloride functional group in organic chemistry. After reading this article, you will be able to understand and describe the naming conventions of acid chlorides, how they are synthesized, the
Amino Functional Group
The amino group is an important functional group for many biological systems. Below we discuss the structure of an amino group, some quick stats on the functional group, reactions with amino groups, and the amino functional group role in peptide
Reactivity of Organic Molecules
Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution
Core Concepts In this article, you will learn about the basics of electrophilic aromatic substitution, important mechanisms, and regioselectivity. Topics Covered in Other Articles What is electrophilic aromatic substitution? Despite the remarkable stability of aromatic compounds, like benzene, organic chemists
Understanding E1 vs E2 Reactions
Core Concepts In this tutorial, you will learn 6 ways to distinguish between the two elimination reactions, E1 vs E2. Be sure to understand the reactions themselves before going through this tutorial! Check out the articles on E1 Elimination and
Directing Effects
When an aromatic ring gains multiple substituents, the ring’s existing substituent(s) determine where the incoming substituents bond.
Epoxide Ring Opening
Core Concepts In this tutorial, you will learn about the mechanism, acid-base dependence, and reagents involved in the epoxide ring opening reaction. Topics Covered in Other Articles What are epoxide ring openings? Epoxide ring openings are a valuable reaction in
Nucleophilic Acyl Substitution
Core Concepts In this article, we will explore the reaction mechanism of nucleophilic acyl substitutions. Related Articles What is Nucleophilic Acyl Substitution? Nucleophilic acyl substitution is the replacement of the heteroatom of the carboxylic acid derivative’s leaving group with a
Alkyne Synthesis
Core Concepts In this tutorial, you will learn about the reagents used and mechanisms involved in synthesizing alkynes. Related Articles Dehydrohalogenation The main method by which alkynes are synthesized are via dehydrohalogenation reactions. These reactions are a type of elimination
Named Reactions
Wolff–Kishner Reduction Reaction
In this organic chemistry tutorial, you will learn about the Wolff–Kishner reduction reaction and its mechanism.
Grignard Reagents
Core Concepts In this tutorial you will learn all about the preparation and uses of Grignard Reagents in organic chemistry. You will also become familiarized with the various types of Grignard reactions, and how they can be used in synthesis
Williamson Ether Synthesis
Core Concepts In this article, you will learn about Williamson ether synthesis, including its importance in organic chemistry, its chemical mechanism, and its limitations. Topics Covered in Other Articles What is Williamson ether synthesis? Williamson ether synthesis is a common
Gilman Reagents
Core Concepts This article serves as a guide to Gilman reagents in organic chemistry. After reading this article, you will be able to understand and describe what they are, their reaction mechanisms, why they are important, their advantages and limitations
Metal-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions
Core Concepts In this article, you will learn about the importance of metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions, their mechanisms, and classic examples used in organic chemistry. Introduction Cross-coupling reactions are a cornerstone of organic chemistry. They help in the formation of carbon-carbon
Michael Addition
Core Concepts Michael Addition is a useful reaction for adding a carbon-carbon bond between an alkene and an electron-depleted carbon. Topics Covered in Other Articles Overview of the Michael Addition Michael additions are a very useful reaction in the toolbox
