Organic Chemistry: Principles and Mechanisms

Organic chemistry is the branch of chemistry that focuses on the structure, properties, composition, reactions, and synthesis of carbon-containing compounds. These compounds form the basis of all life on Earth and include not only complex biomolecules like proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids but also a vast array of synthetic materials such as plastics, pharmaceuticals, dyes, and fuels. The unique ability of carbon to form four covalent bonds and to bond with itself in long chains and rings allows for the creation of millions of structurally diverse molecules.

Understanding bonding and molecular structure is essential in organic chemistry. At the core of molecular architecture are covalent bonds, in which atoms share electrons. Carbon atoms often form single, double, or triple bonds with other carbon atoms or with elements like hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and halogens. The tetrahedral geometry of carbon atoms in alkanes, the trigonal planar arrangement in alkenes, and the linear geometry in alkynes illustrate the importance of molecular shape in determining physical and chemical properties. Concepts like bond angles, bond lengths, and molecular geometry play a key role in understanding how molecules behave and interact.

Another foundational concept is hybridization and resonance. Hybridization refers to the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals that are used in bonding. For instance, in methane (CH₄), the carbon atom undergoes sp³ hybridization, resulting in a tetrahedral shape. In ethene (C₂H₄), sp² hybridization leads to a planar structure with a double bond, while in ethyne (C₂H₂), sp hybridization results in a linear molecule with a triple bond. Resonance, on the other hand, involves the delocalization of electrons across adjacent atoms, allowing for multiple valid Lewis structures that contribute to the overall stability and reactivity of a molecule.

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Hljóðbók: 25 april 2025