Molecular Orbital Theory?

[G1SG2]

We don't have to know the molecular orbital theory for the MCAT, right? I mean, I don't see it on the AAMC PS Topics list...but I have seen it in practice passages (Kaplan, TPR, etc). Can it still pop up as an experimental passage? What about rotational kinetics? That's not on the list either, but does it have the potential to show up? Thanks.

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[austinap]

I've never seen that tested specifically, but it is within the scope of organic chemistry (MO) and general chemistry (rotational kinetics), so I'd look over it briefly. You'd likely be given most of the information you needed in a passage if they do decide to test it.

 

[thebillsfan]

understand angular momentum and angular inertia.

 

[minutemen11]

understand angular momentum and angular inertia.

can you explain what this is in terms of MO theory?? i know what the terms mean in physics but how does that relate to MO?

 

[austinap]

can you explain what this is in terms of MO theory?? i know what the terms mean in physics but how does that relate to MO?

I assumed he was talking about bond rotational energy, etc... It isn't really related to MO theory, but is quantum mechanical in nature if you want to make the stretch.

 

[capostat]

really no quantum theory?

1s2, 2s2, 2p3 stuff?

that crushes my spirit even more. it's probably the only thing I'm confident in in chemistry...

 

[G1SG2]

really no quantum theory?

1s2, 2s2, 2p3 stuff?

that crushes my spirit even more. it's probably the only thing I'm confident in in chemistry...

No, that's going to be there lol. The MO theory is different (bonding, antibonding stuff, etc).

 

[capostat]

No, that's going to be there lol. The MO theory is different (bonding, antibonding stuff, etc).

excellent. maybe i can score a point then.

i keep thinking if only this test allowed the proper amount of time to do--everything would be so much better.

 

[austinap]

No, that's going to be there lol. The MO theory is different (bonding, antibonding stuff, etc).

Yes, hybridization will certainly be there. Even basic concepts like bonding vs. antibonding may show up, since they're within the realm of basic organic chemistry. I'd also be familiar with different types of bonds (sigma, pi, etc...). MO theory beyond these basics is unlikely to show up.

 

[loveoforganic]

I too think that on the very slight chance there's an MO passage on the MCAT, they would probably provide adequate information to answer the questions. It's a concept that probably gets explained to incredibly varying levels in organic classes.

 

[boaz]

I strongly doubt anything relating to MO theory will be broached in any MCAT. I just don't see them giving a passage dealing with the [true] mechanism of the Diels-Alder reaction, etc. They're more concerned with carbonyl and amine reactions, both of which are most important for biochem.