How Do We Know Methane (CH4) Is Tetrahedral?
What Do The Valence Electrons Of Carbon Tell Us About The Bonding In CH4? (Hint: since the dipole moment of CH4 is zero, the answer
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Hybrid Orbitals and Hybridization
Today’s post is all about hybrid orbitals. Here’s a quick summary: [Note: This post was co-authored with Matthew Pierce of Organic Chemistry Solutions. Ask Matt about scheduling
Read moreSigma bonds come in six varieties: Pi bonds come in one
You may recall from Gen chem (and no doubt your first week of o-chem as well), that orbitals on carbon come in two flavors: s
Read moreLewis Structures
There are essentially three uses for Lewis structures. They’re good at helping you get acquainted with the placement of electrons around atoms, helping to visualize
Read moreExam Tip: Don’t just bring your model kit – USE it!
Here’s something I don’t understand. Well, that’s not true – it’s something I understand, but I think is… unwise. Bringing a model kit to an
Read moreThe Marriage May Be Bad, But the Divorce Still Costs Money
Common misconception: energy is released through the breaking of bonds. Not correct. Energy is released through the FORMATION of chemical bonds. Formation of a new
Read moreSummary Sheet – Introduction to Reactivity and Nomenclature
One of my students is taking an introductory organic chemistry course at a community college. While preparing for our next session, which is going to
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