A Self-study Guide to the Principles of Organic Chemistry

Book excerpt: A Self-Study Guide to the Principles of Organic Chemistry: Key Concepts, Reaction Mechanisms, and Practice Questions for the Beginner will help students new to organic chemistry grasp the key concepts of the subject quickly and easily, as well as build a strong foundation for future study. Starting with the definition of "atom," the author explains molecules, electronic configuration, bonding, hydrocarbons, polar reaction mechanisms, stereochemistry, reaction varieties, organic spectroscopy, aromaticity and aromatic reactions, biomolecules, organic polymers, and a synthetic approach to organic compounds. The over one hundred diagrams and charts contained in this volume will help students visualize the structures and bonds as they read the text, and make the logic of organic chemistry clear and easily understood. Each chapter ends with a list of frequently-asked questions and answers, followed by additional practice problems. Answers are included in the Appendix.