Organic Chemistry Reactions Cheat Sheet

Key Definitions

• Organic Chemistry: Study of carbon-containing compounds and their reactions. ✅

• Functional Group: Specific group of atoms within a molecule that determines its properties. ✅

• Nucleophile: Electron-rich species that donates an electron pair to form a bond. ✅

• Electrophile: Electron-deficient species that accepts an electron pair. ✅

Important Concepts

Reaction Types

• Substitution Reactions: One atom/group replaces another (e.g., alkane to haloalkane). ✅

• Addition Reactions: Atoms/groups added to double/triple bonds (e.g., alkene to alkane). ✅

• Elimination Reactions: Removal of atoms/groups to form double/triple bonds. ✅

• Rearrangement Reactions: Atoms/groups within a molecule rearrange to form isomers. ✅

Mechanisms

• SN1: Unimolecular nucleophilic substitution; involves a carbocation intermediate. ✅

• SN2: Bimolecular nucleophilic substitution; concerted reaction with backside attack. ✅

• E1: Unimolecular elimination; involves a carbocation intermediate. ✅

• E2: Bimolecular elimination; concerted reaction with a strong base. ✅

Key Formulas

R-X + Nu- → R-Nu + X- (Nucleophilic Substitution)

• R-X: Alkyl halide

• Nu-: Nucleophile

• R-Nu: Product

R1-R2 + H2 → R1-R2-H2 (Hydrogenation)

• R1-R2: Unsaturated hydrocarbon

• H2: Hydrogen gas

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Common Mistake: Confusing SN1 and SN2 mechanisms; remember SN1 involves a carbocation, while SN2 is a one-step process.

Memory Tricks

Tip: "S.A.E. R." — Substitution, Addition, Elimination, Rearrangement for types of reactions.

Key Diagrams

SN2 Mechanism:
Nu- + R-X → [Transition State] → R-Nu + X-

E2 Mechanism:
Base + R-X → [Transition State] → Alkene + HX