Organic Chemistry I: Course Schedule and Study Guide (Unit #1A, Klein Ch. 1-2)

Course Overview and Structure

Introduction to Organic Chemistry I

This schedule outlines the topics, readings, and assignments for the first unit of Organic Chemistry I, based on Klein Chapters 1-2. The course combines synchronous and asynchronous sessions, focusing on foundational concepts such as molecular structure, bonding, and resonance.

• Course Format: Mix of live (synchronous) and self-paced (asynchronous) sessions.

• Textbook: Klein, Organic Chemistry, Chapters 1-2.

• Assignments: Practice problems, quizzes, and video recaps.

Unit #1A Topics and Subtopics

Syllabus, Course Overview, and General Chemistry Review

The first session introduces the syllabus, course policies, and a review of key general chemistry concepts relevant to organic chemistry.

• Syllabus: Outlines course expectations, grading, and resources.

• General Chemistry Review: Focuses on atomic structure, periodic trends, and chemical bonding.

• Example: Review of electron configuration and periodic table trends.

Polar Bonds and Molecules

This topic covers the nature of chemical bonds, molecular polarity, and their implications for organic molecules.

• Polar Covalent Bonds: Bonds where electrons are unequally shared due to differences in electronegativity.

• Molecular Polarity: Determined by bond polarity and molecular geometry.

• Equation: $\mu = Q \times r$ (Dipole moment, where $Q$ is charge and $r$ is distance)

• Example: Water ($H_2O$) is a polar molecule due to its bent geometry and polar O-H bonds.

Lewis Structures, Formal Charges, and Orbitals

Students learn to draw Lewis structures, assign formal charges, and understand atomic orbitals.

• Lewis Structures: Diagrams showing the arrangement of electrons in molecules.

• Formal Charge: $\text{Formal Charge} = \text{Valence Electrons} - \text{Nonbonding Electrons} - \frac{1}{2} \times \text{Bonding Electrons}$

• Atomic Orbitals: Regions in space where electrons are likely to be found (s, p, d, f).

• Example: Drawing the Lewis structure for methane ($CH_4$).

MO Theory, Orbitals, and Hybridization

Molecular orbital (MO) theory explains bonding in terms of orbital interactions and hybridization.

• MO Theory: Atomic orbitals combine to form molecular orbitals that are delocalized over the molecule.

• Hybridization: Mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals (e.g., $sp^3$, $sp^2$, $sp$).

• Example: Carbon in ethene ($C_2H_4$) is $sp^2$ hybridized.

Resonance Structures and Delocalization

Resonance describes the delocalization of electrons in molecules where multiple valid Lewis structures exist.

• Resonance Structures: Different Lewis structures representing the same molecule.

• Delocalization: Electrons are spread over several atoms, increasing stability.

• Example: The acetate ion ($CH_3COO^-$) has two resonance structures.

Drawing Organic Structures and Recognizing Patterns

Students practice drawing organic molecules, recognizing functional groups, and identifying resonance patterns.

• Bond-Line Structures: Simplified representations showing bonds and carbon atoms.

• Functional Groups: Specific groups of atoms that impart characteristic properties (e.g., alcohols, amines).

• Example: Drawing the structure of benzene and identifying its resonance.

Heteroatoms and Functional Groups

Heteroatoms (atoms other than carbon and hydrogen) and functional groups are key to organic reactivity and classification.

• Heteroatoms: Common examples include oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and halogens.

• Functional Groups: Alcohols ($-OH$), amines ($-NH_2$), carboxylic acids ($-COOH$), etc.

• Example: Ethanol contains an alcohol functional group.

Practice Problems and Quizzes

Regular practice problems and quizzes reinforce understanding and prepare students for exams.

• Assignment: Weekly practice problems and online quizzes.

• Review Sessions: Scheduled review sessions with SI Leader and instructor.

Course Schedule Table

The following table summarizes the schedule, topics, readings, and assignments for Unit #1A:

Date	Topic	Reading	Assignment/Practice
8/25	Syllabus, Course Overview, General Chemistry Review	1.1-1.4	Video 1-1 Recap
8/27	Polar Bonds and Molecules; Lewis Structures, Formal Charges	1.5, 1.11-1.14	Week 1 Recap, Practice Problems
9/1	NO CLASS – LABOR DAY	-	-
9/3	MO Theory, Orbitals, Hybridization	1.6-1.10	Turn-in Practice Problems, Visualize Chemistry Video
9/8	Resonance Structures, Delocalization	2.1-2.3	Complete Book Problems
9/10	Drawing Organic Structures, Recognizing Patterns	2.1-2.3	Practice Problems
9/15	Heteroatoms, Functional Groups	2.1-2.3	Quiz, Practice Problems
9/17	Review for Unit 1A Quiz	1.1-2.3	Short Quiz
9/19	Begin Unit 1B, Student Consultations	1.1-2.3	Quiz

Additional Resources

• SI Leader Sessions: Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:00-6:15pm.

• Instructor Office Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:30-4:00pm and 2:00-3:00pm.

• Review Sessions: Available on Zoom (links provided in schedule).