Intended for students of intermediate organic chemistry, this text shows how to write a reasonable mechanism
for an organic chemical transformation. The discussion is organized by types of mechanisms and the conditions under
which the reaction is executed, rather than by the overall reaction as is the case in most textbooks. The treatment
emphasizes unifying principles, showing how common mechanisms link seemingly disparate reactions. Each chapter
discusses common mechanistic pathways and suggests practical tips for drawing them. Worked problems are included
in the discussion of each mechanism, and "common error alerts" are scattered throughout the text to warn
readers about pitfalls and misconceptions that bedevil students. Each chapter is capped by a large problem set.
The author has drawn on his own research and the current literature to ensure that appropriate attention is given
to topics across the range of modern organic chemistry. The text is unique in its inclusion of a chapter on reactions
mediated or catalyzed by transition metals, an area in which mechanistic understanding is now essential. Relatively
new topics such as olefin metathesis and cycloaromatization are covered without giving short shrift to more traditional
areas such as carbonyl chemistry. The text assumes a basic knowledge of organic chemistry. It can be used either
in a formal course or by students working on their own, and will be particularly useful for graduate students studying
for qualifying examinations. It will also be useful to students and researchers in biochemistry, pharmacology,
and inorganic chemistry.
Table of Contents
1 The Basics.
2 Polar Reactions under Basic Conditions.
3 Polar Reactions under Acidic Conditions.
4 Pericyclic Reactions.
5 Free- Radical Reactions.
6 Transition-Metal-Mediated and -Catalyzed Reactions.
7 Mixed-Mechanism Problems.