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Topic: Mastering ochem  (Read 3657 times)

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Offline Monium101

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Mastering ochem
« on: July 07, 2014, 05:37:16 PM »
Hello everyone, I know this question may seem silly but how can I simply master organic chemistry in material such as stereochemistry(drawing entantiomers, diastereosmers, stereoisomers) and  nomenclature of organic compounds. Im having a difficult time especially with stereochemistry, if anyone could give me concrete advice, that would be completely amazing! Thanks.

Offline Dan

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Re: Mastering ochem
« Reply #1 on: July 07, 2014, 05:54:50 PM »
Get a model kit, a good book*, practice x3.

*Recommend: Stereochemistry at a glance - Eames and Peach (basics, worked examples); Stereochemistry of organic compounds - Eliel and Wilen (bible).
My research: Google Scholar and Researchgate

Offline orgo814

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Re: Mastering ochem
« Reply #2 on: July 09, 2014, 12:25:40 AM »
Keep working the problems...stereochemistry is one of those things that either comes easy to you or doesn't. I'm not very visual either but after working enough problems it gets easier. I still remember the stereochem exam being my worst one I took in organic!

Offline zsinger

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Re: Mastering ochem
« Reply #3 on: July 09, 2014, 11:32:29 AM »
PROBLEMS PROBLEMS PROBLEMS…..and then some more! :).  Then, if your lucky, laboratory application. ;)
           -Zack
"The answer is of zero significance if one cannot distinctly arrive at said place with an explanation"

Offline kamiyu

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Re: Mastering ochem
« Reply #4 on: July 10, 2014, 01:59:17 PM »
1) Doing problems definitely helps, but reading papers and research books helps you truly be good at the topic.

2) I do not think the question of how to master organic chemistry is silly. I am also wondering how to be a good material/synthetic chemist.

Offline zsinger

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Re: Mastering ochem
« Reply #5 on: July 16, 2014, 07:52:16 PM »
I am no awesome chemist, but my home chemistry hobby has been going strong.  I feel like lab work teaches you the most.  The book reading makes PERFECT sense if you have done a lab procedure regarding the topic IMO. 
             Cheers
                   Zack
"The answer is of zero significance if one cannot distinctly arrive at said place with an explanation"

Offline davidenarb

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Re: Mastering ochem
« Reply #6 on: July 17, 2014, 05:44:16 AM »
Orgo is all bout understanding; therefore, choosing a textbook is crucial for your understanding.

Offline zsinger

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Re: Mastering ochem
« Reply #7 on: July 17, 2014, 12:15:41 PM »
"Organic as a Second Language" by David R. Klein is the BEST reference manual IMO.  I would assume Klein's books are just as good and thorough.  Hope this helps.
                 -Zack
"The answer is of zero significance if one cannot distinctly arrive at said place with an explanation"

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