3 x 50-minute lectures weekly
6 x 6-hour laboratories per semester
CHEM2702 - Organic Reactions
Enrolment not permitted
CHEM8711 has been successfully completed
Topic description

The topic extends the chemistry concepts of second year Organic Reaction and extends the fundamental concepts to modern synthetic methods used in industry and research today.

This topic includes:

  1. Oxidation and reduction methods, stereochemistry and products from hydride and dissolving-metal reductions
  2. Synthetic organic applications of phosphorus, silicon, titanium, copper, palladium and ruthenium
  3. Chemistry of heterocycles; their synthesis, reactivity, electrophilic and nucleophilic substitution
  4. Mechanisms and applications in synthesis of molecular rearrangements involving carbo-cations, electron deficient nitrogen and oxygen species, and of carbonyl compounds
  5. Illustrates experimental and instrumental methods and techniques of organic chemistry
Educational aims

This topic aims to provide material to complete the basic understanding of the core organic chemistry that would be expected for a graduate chemist in the workplace. It will deliver a level of understanding of Organic Chemistry to students such that applications in other areas of chemistry are appreciated. It also bridges the gap between 'bookwork' organic chemistry and research areas in organic chemistry. Student's practical skills will be developed further with exposure to a variety of new synthetic organic chemistry techniques.

Expected learning outcomes

  1. Apply a sound knowledge and understanding of those aspects of chemistry in the syllabus to chemical problems
  2. Demonstrate the use of modern reagents and methods in organic synthesis
  3. Show an appreciation of the application of organic chemistry in industry and society
  4. Demonstrate developed experimental skills and the confidence to safely and efficiently manipulate organic compounds with consideration of the regulatory framework surrounding chemistry, including Occupational Health and Safety, ethics, data storage and Intellectual Property
  5. Show developed communication skills in the preparation of reports appropriate to their purpose, and to interact meaningfully in group discussions
  6. Use an understanding of how different aspects of chemistry apply in the area of organic chemistry and thus solve problems in applied chemistry

Key dates and timetable

(1), (2)

Each class is numbered in brackets.

Classes are held weekly unless otherwise indicated.






Registration in the stream will result in registration in all classes.