General Organic Chemistry (GOC) and Stereochemistry

Organic chemistry requires a deep understanding of how electrons move and how molecules are arranged in three dimensions. Without these foundational concepts, predicting reaction outcomes remains difficult. This course provides a comprehensive text-based guide to General Organic Chemistry (GOC) and Stereochemistry. You will move from basic bonding theories to confidently analyzing complex molecular structures and predicting stability based on electronic effects and spatial orientation. ### What you'll learn * Understand bonding, hybridization, and fundamental electronic effects like induction, resonance, and hyperconjugation. * Analyze the stability and reactivity of key reaction intermediates, including carbocations, carbanions, and free radicals. * Practice determining acid and base strength quantitatively using pKa values and structural factors. * Master the principles of isomerism, chirality, and the Cahn-Ingold-Prelog (R/S) system for absolute configuration. * Apply E/Z nomenclature and conformational analysis (Newman projections and chair forms) to predict molecular behavior. * Differentiate between enantiomers, diastereomers, and meso compounds, and predict their separation methods. This course begins with foundational concepts of bonding and electronic effects, progressing systematically through acid-base chemistry and reaction intermediates. The second half focuses entirely on stereochemistry, building up from basic isomerism to advanced conformational analysis and configurational assignments through detailed written explanations and practice problems. This course is designed for absolute beginners in advanced organic chemistry, including students preparing for rigorous academic programs or foundational science exams. No prior advanced chemistry knowledge is required. Start developing the foundational knowledge required for success in synthetic and physical organic chemistry today.