Handbook

Organic synthesis and the physical principles that dictate chemical reactivity have far-reaching applications in areas such as pharmaceutical development, agriculture and the production of paints, adhesives and dyes. Advancements in the design of biodegradable polymers, organic solar cells and sustainable catalysts are underpinned by modern organic chemistry, which align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of energy conversion, resource sustainability and climate. This subject will begin with a series of case-studies that highlight the broad range of applications of organic and physical chemistry, with particular emphasis on drug efficacy.

When looking at chemical systems, three fundamental questions arise: to what extent will they react, how quickly will they react and what is the structure of molecules involved? In this subject you will build upon your understanding of kinetics, spectroscopic techniques, stereochemistry, and the theory and mechanism of a range of organic reactions. Specific topics include: 1) how to determine the structure of organic compounds using spectroscopic data; 2) kinetics and reactivity of alkyl halides; and 3) the reactivity of a range of functional groups, including alcohols, amine and aromatic compounds, with specific links to industrial chemical synthesis. You will refine your problem solving and critical thinking skills through chemical structure determination, solving organic reaction problems and drawing reaction mechanisms. You will learn key analytical and synthetic chemistry techniques in the laboratory, equipping you with the skills to synthesise, purify and analyse simple organic compounds. The laboratories and interactive tutorial classes will put theory into practice, and allow you to further develop your communication and teamwork skills.