Available in 2024
Course code

CHEM3310

Units

10 units

Level

3000 level

Course handbook

Description

The development of modern synthetic materials, whether they be new drugs for the treatment of cancer or for the latest synthetic fabric, requires a knowledge of molecular organic synthesis. Students will develop pre-existing skills (from CHEM2310) to a higher level examining a range of synthetic transformations for functional group transformations, carbon-carbon bond formation and skeletal rearrangements, emphasising the chemo- and stereo-selectivity and mechanism of these reactions. A logical, applied approach backed up by laboratory work will be utilised to emphasise key concepts. Students will also be introduced to the application of molecular organic synthesis to biological systems. Selected literature classics of chemical synthesis will also be included.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Callaghan

  • Semester 1 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Identify chemical reactions required for functional group transformations;

2. Illustrate mechanisms of organic chemical reactions;

3. Design targeted organic synthesis by applying functional group transformations;

4. Independently integrate key concepts as applied to chemical reactions, functional group transformations and organic synthesis;

5. Use advanced practical lab skills in synthetic tasks and identification of organic compounds;

6. Plan, conduct, critically evaluate and report organic synthesis experiments;

7. Work safely and competently in an organic chemistry laboratory setting.


Content

1. Chemical bonding and skeletal rearrangements

a) Frontier molecular orbital theory. HOMO & LUMO

b) Pericyclic reactions. Diels-Alder, 4+2p 2+2p

c) Sigmatropic (Claisen) and electrocylic rearrnagements

d) Amine chemistry

2. Reactive intermediates and metal mediated transformations

a) Reactive intermediates

b) Pd-catalysed couplings - Heck & Suzuki coupling

c) Sonogahira coupling. Metal mediated C-H activiation

d) Grubbs ring closing and cross metathesis

3. Retrosynthesis

a) Synthons, functional group interconversions and protecting group chemistry

b) Retro-synthesis of complex molecules of biological importance


Requisite

Pre-requisite - Successful Completion of CHEM2310.


Assessment items

Report: Laboratory Reports
Compulsory Requirement: Pass requirement - Must pass this assessment item to pass the course.

Written Assignment: Written Assignments

Formal Examination: Final Examination
Compulsory Requirement: Pass requirement 40% - Must obtain 40% in this assessment item to pass the course.


Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan

Laboratory-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
  • Compulsory Requirement: Students must attend 100% of sessions.
Lecture-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 1 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1

Course outline