Category: Organic Chemistry Basics
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Functional Groups in Organic Chemistry: Introduction
Functional groups are the foundation of organic chemistry as they define the structure, reactivity, and properties of organic compounds. Here, we explain what functional groups are (by looking at – wait for it – fruit salad), and introduce the most common functional groups.Did you know that functional groups were at the root of dispute and…
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How to Identify Nucleophile vs Electrophile (Summary & Detailed)
Ever struggle with how to identify if a group is a nucleophile vs. electrophile?If you are in a rush and don’t care about learning chemistry (bruh), the first sections got you. I recommend you try to truly understand the concept as it’s arguably the most important skill in organic chemistry. Nucleophile vs electrophile: Summary 1.…
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TBS Protecting Group: TBS Protection & Deprotection
The TBS protecting group protects alcohols in organic synthesis, and is deprotected with fluoride anions (e.g., TBAF) or strong acids. This commonly used, bulky silyl protecting group is very resilient, allowing for selective/ orthogonal deprotection of similar groups like TMS.For silyl ethers, bigger is better!As they have 3 different mechanisms for deprotection, they’re a nice…
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SN2 Reaction Explanation & Mechanism
Do you struggle to comprehend the SN2 mechanism, or the difference between SN2 vs SN1? You are not alone! All of us need models and practice to understand what the molecules look like in their 3D structure. On my channel, you can find some more visual explanations and animations that might help. SN2 Mechanism: it…
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Fmoc Protecting Group: Fmoc Protection & Deprotection Mechanism
The Fmoc protecting group protects amines in synthesis, and is deprotected with bases such as secondary amines like piperidine. You might not expect it, but this group is very similar to other carbamate groups (e.g., Boc, Cbz) even though it is orthogonal to them. However, remember orthogonal is a relative term… But, have you heard…
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Cbz Protecting Group: N-Cbz Protection & Deprotection Mechanism
The Cbz protecting group protects amines as less reactive carbamates in organic synthesis and is deprotected with hydrogenolysis. N-Cbz is orthogonal to numerous protecting groups as it’s stable to bases and acids. Its removal by reduction is unique but it has similarities to other protecting groups! You can zoom and play around with this 3D…
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Boc Protecting Group: N-Boc Protection & Deprotection Mechanism
The Boc protecting group protects amines as less reactive carbamates in organic synthesis, and is deprotected with acid. N-Boc is a key topic during chemistry courses. Why?It nicely exemplifies important protecting group concepts and has an interesting deprotection mechanism. You can zoom and play around with this 3D model of the Boc protecting group! What…
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PMB Protecting Group: PMB Protection & Deprotection Mechanism
The PMB protecting group protects alcohols as less reactive ethers in organic synthesis, and is deprotected oxidatively or with strong acids. The study of its mechanisms and properties will improve your understanding of organic chemistry concepts! You can zoom and play around with this 3D model of the PMB protecting group! What is the PMB…
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What is Total Synthesis? The Basics Explained
This post explains the question: What is total synthesis? If you read this, you might be forced to study organic chemistry 🙁 or are already interested in total synthesis. In any case, this brief commentary will explain the concept very simply. For advanced content, check out this page or my videos. Imagine you’re a pastry…