Structure and Reactivity of Carbon-Based Molecules

This course offers an introduction to organic chemistry - the molecular 'language' that underpins biology, pharmacology, medicine, diagnostics, environmental and materials sciences. Students will gain insight into the chemical reactivity of carbon-based molecules by exploring structural and bonding models, chemical thermodynamics, and reaction kinetics. Application of this foundational knowledge to rationalize reaction outcomes, predict new chemical transformations, and guide molecular design and synthesis will be emphasized. A two-hour weekly lab section accompanies this course to reinforce lecture concepts through experiential learning and to introduce techniques for synthesizing and characterizing carbon-based molecules.