Basic knowledge to understand how and why an organic molecule reacts. The student will learn that the reactivity and the physical/chemical properties of the considered organic compounds is the same that is found in biological sytems and in the environment, and that the organic chemistry is part of our daily life. At the end of the course, the student will be able to recognize simple organic systems in the nature and to predict the reactivity.
Course Prerequisites
Acquired knowledge from general chemistry.
Teaching Methods
The course will be held through 24 lectures (48 hours), also including exercises carried out in classroom. PPT slides will be used in classroom.
Assessment Methods
The assessment consists of a written exam lasting 2 hours, based on structure/reactivity exercises. Each question is assigned a clearly indicated score. These exercises are designed to assess the ability to recognize and critically analyze organic structures, to correctly apply theoretical knowledge to problems involving the reactivity of organic molecules—including under environmental conditions—to use appropriate terminology and molecular representation methods, and finally, to evaluate the logical and deductive reasoning skills acquired.
Contents
1) Structure of Organic Molecules Introduction to the fundamental principles governing the arrangement of atoms in organic molecules. Analysis of different ways to represent molecules (structural formulas, Lewis structures, stick models, and 3D representations) to better understand geometry, orbital hybridization, and conformations of carbon chains. The main families of organic compounds and their structural features will also be presented. 2) Functional Groups: Structure and IUPAC Nomenclature Detailed study of the main functional groups that characterize organic molecules (alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, amines, amides, etc.). The course will cover both their chemical structures and the basic rules of IUPAC nomenclature, to learn how to correctly name simple and more complex compounds. 3) Functional Groups: Reactivity Analysis of the chemical behavior of functional groups under different conditions, with examples of the most representative reactions. The course will show how the presence and position of functional groups influence the overall reactivity of the molecule, allowing students to predict the main potential organic transformations in the enviroment.
Course Language
Italian
More information
Please contact for an appointment by email: s.gazzola@uninsubria.it
