Course Overview

Course Information

This course, CHEM 201: Organic Chemistry I, is an introductory college-level course focusing on the fundamental principles of organic chemistry. It covers the nomenclature, stereochemistry, reactivity, mechanisms, and synthesis of various classes of organic compounds.

• Credits: 3

• Prerequisites: CHEM-104 and CHEM-105

• Co-requisites: CHEM-201L

• Instructor: Sergey Smirnov, PhD

• Class Location: Science and Innovation Center, 121

• Office Location: Science and Innovation Center, 232

• Class Meeting Time: Tue/Thu 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM

Course Description

CHEM 201 is the first course in a two-semester sequence that provides a detailed study of the physical and chemical properties of carbon compounds. The course emphasizes the structure, nomenclature, stereochemistry, reactivity, and mechanisms of organic molecules, as well as the synthesis and reactions of major functional groups.

Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Objectives

• Develop problem-solving skills in organic chemistry.

• Understand and apply the nomenclature of organic compounds.

• Analyze stereochemistry and isomerism.

• Comprehend reaction mechanisms and reactivity trends.

• Synthesize and predict the behavior of various classes of organic compounds.

Learning Outcomes

• Ability to solve problems involving the nomenclature, stereochemistry, reactivity, mechanisms, and synthesis of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, aromatics, alkyl halides, alcohols, ethers, epoxides, amines, thiols, thioethers, organometallic compounds, and radicals.

Required Materials

Textbook

• Organic Chemistry (8th edition) by Bruice, Paula Yurkanis. Pearson Education, Inc.

• ISBN-13: 9780135172012 (Digital 24-month access)

• ISBN-13: 9780134079220 (Print)

• Online Homework (Required): Pearson Mastering Chemistry

Molecular Model Kit

• Molecular Visions Molecular Model Kit (ISBN-13: 978-0964883714)

Grading and Assessment

Grading Components

• Quizzes (lowest score dropped): 25% of total

• Homework (lowest score dropped): 20% of total

• Final Exam: 20% of total (cumulative exam)

Grading Scale

Assessment Policies

• Weekly homework sets are assigned and due on Wednesdays by 11:59 PM.

• Short quizzes (10–15 minutes) are given in class every Thursday.

• No extra credit work will be offered outside of this syllabus.

Course Schedule (Tentative)

Additional info: The schedule above is a summary; actual dates and topics may be adjusted as needed.

Major Topics Covered

• General Chemistry Review: Atomic structure, bonding, hybridization, resonance.

• Acids and Bases: Brønsted-Lowry and Lewis definitions, pKa, acid-base equilibria.

• Nomenclature and Structure: IUPAC rules, functional groups, molecular geometry.

• Stereochemistry and Isomerism: Chirality, enantiomers, diastereomers, optical activity.

• Alkenes and Alkynes: Structure, nomenclature, reactions (addition, elimination).

• Aromaticity: Delocalized electrons, Huckel's rule, aromatic compounds.

• Alkyl Halides: Nucleophilic substitution and elimination reactions (SN1, SN2, E1, E2).

• Alcohols, Ethers, Epoxides, Sulfur Compounds: Synthesis and reactions.

• Radicals: Formation, stability, and reactions of organic radicals.

Policies and Expectations

• Attendance: Regular attendance and participation are expected.

• Academic Integrity: Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited.

• Electronic Device Policy: No use of phones, tablets, or laptops during class unless permitted.

• Accommodations: Students with documented disabilities should contact the Office of Global Engagement.

Support and Resources

• Canvas: Course materials, assignments, and grades will be managed through Canvas.

• Technical Support: IT helpdesk and Canvas support are available for technical issues.

• University Policies: Refer to the university catalog for full academic and conduct policies.