https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2025-2026/X_4011101. Describe and analyze the structure, bonding, and physical properties of of organic molecules. Students will identify functional groups, recognize covalent and non-covalent interactions, determine molecular geometry, and explain structure–property relationships using concepts such as resonance, hybridization, and molecular orbital theory. This includes distinguishing polar/non-polar bonds, hydrogen bonding, and van der Waals forces across a range of organic compounds. 2. Interpret and construct detailed mechanisms for organic reactions. Students will use arrow-pushing formalisms to represent heterolytic and homolytic processes, identify key reactive species (nucleophiles, electrophiles, intermediates, and transition states), and rationalize reaction pathways based on steric and electronic effects. Common reaction types—such as nucleophilic substitutions, additions, and carbonyl transformations—will be explained in mechanistic detail. 3. Explain the kinetic and thermodynamic principles that govern organic reactions. Students will relate reaction rates and equilibria to molecular structure and reaction conditions, using concepts such as activation energy, entropy, enthalpy, and Gibbs free energy. These principles will be applied to evaluate reaction feasibility, reversibility, and selectivity in synthetic contexts.This course aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of organic chemistry. Students will learn the key mechanistic and structural principles that govern organic molecules and their reactivity, and how to apply this knowledge to improve chemical efficiency and innovation in the field. Organic chemistry is the central language of molecular science and underpins innovations in pharmaceuticals, materials, and biotechnology. Traditional synthetic practices often rely on complex reagents, involve multistep processes, and require careful control of reaction conditions. In this course, students will explore the essential concepts of organic structure and reactivity—including functional group chemistry, acid-base behavior, reaction kinetics, mechanisms, and thermodynamics—alongside strategies for improving selectivity, step economy, and reaction design. For example, students will study nucleophilic additions to carbonyl compounds from a mechanistic perspective, comparing different classes of reagents and conditions for efficiency and selectivity. The discussion of solvent effects will focus on their influence on reaction rates, equilibria, and mechanisms. In examining reaction mechanisms, students will learn to identify opportunities for minimizing waste and increasing yield through fewer steps, higher selectivity, and catalysis. Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to think critically about how reactivity principles guide the rational design of chemical transformations.The course meets twice per week and consists of lecture sessions (2 × 45 minutes) and interactive seminars, including peer-to-peer collaboration. While attendance is not compulsory, active participation is strongly encouraged to support deeper understanding and skill development. Students are expected to take responsibility for their own learning by preparing in advance, engaging in discussions, and making use of the available course resources.The course will involve a final exam. Exam info:Final exam (Content: Clayden chapters 2, 4 – 8, 10, 11)Re-sit exam (Content same as final exam)Lecture slides and seminar problem sets will be available via Canvas