In the first few weeks of an organic chemistry class, we learn that: Carbon can form up to four single bonds Carbon with four single bonds adopts a tetrahedral geometry (ideal bond angle: 109.5°) Compared to other atoms on the periodic table, [O, N, S, Si for example] carbon forms very strong … [Read more...]
Putting Diels-Alder Products in Perspective
One of the things I like about teaching is that it helps me realize some of the things I take for granted that newcomers find difficult. The other night I got this question. How do you know to draw the Diels Alder product this way? I've gotten so used to thinking of molecules in 3D that … [Read more...]