Course Description

This is the second semester of a two-semester sequence in organic chemistry. The principles of bonding, molecular structure (with an emphasis on the three-dimensional aspects of structure and stereochemistry), polarities and acid-base properties introduced in CHE 251 are extended and related to additional types of organic compounds and their reactions. The course concentrates on organic reactions and their mechanisms. The relationship between molecular structure, properties, and reactivity is emphasized throughout the course. Major topics discussed include: reactions of dienes; substitution and elimination reactions; free radical reactions; and nucleophilic addition, substitution, and condensation reactions of carbonyl compounds. If time permits, special topics such as polymers and biomolecules will also be discussed.The laboratory continues and builds on the basic separation, purification, synthesis and structure determination techniques of organic chemistry on the microscale level introduced in the CHE 251 laboratory. Spectroscopic methods of analysis are also emphasized in CHE 252. In addition to the ultraviolet/visible (UV/Vis), infrared (IR), and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopic methods introduced in CHE 251, carbon nuclear magnetic resonance (13C-NMR) and mass spectroscopy (MS) are also discussed and used in the CHE 252 laboratory. Three class hours, four laboratory hours.

Prerequisites

CHE 251 with a grade of C- or higher, or permission of instructor.