O Chem reaction memorization

[AmpJBieberblast]

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Im wondering about how many OChem reactions you guys are memorizing for predicting products. I've counted about 80 different types of reactions in my notes. Is that overkill? or too less?

For example... im wondering if we need to know these two reaction

2 methyl propene + adding BH3 THF, H2O2, OH --> 2 methy 1 propanol

which is a anti-markovnikov oxidation reaciton

Another one...

Butene + adding Hg(OAC)2, H2O, NaBH4 --> 2 butanol

Which is a markovnikov oxidation reaction


In my notes these seem important but i dont see examples of these anywhere in problems or books.

Also, predict the product type of questions dominate ochem right?

thnx peeps

 

[Kahr]

These two reactions are of paramount importance to know as they are some of the earlier reactions demonstrating basic ideas of regiochemistry differences.

I cannot believe you aren't seeing Hydroboration and Alkoxymerc-demerc (oxymerc-demerc as well) in your books.

You bring up a huge dilemma for many students of orgo, that of memorization. It is undeniable you cannot avoid some memorization, and if what you remember from class is weak, that may be easier than re-learning mechanisms. But. It is better to understand how these things work, as it will allow you to do better on questions across the board, and predict many reactions without as much memorization.

Honestly, I remember this class well, and I've covered most of the whole sequence while studying, but I still have easily flashcards for 80+ reactions. So I wouldn't say it's overkill. If you have time, go over any of the reactions that seem unfamiliar to you, get a basic grasp of the mechanism and you'll remember the reactions much better than brute forcing them into your head. However, some aren't even worth going over, like the Hydroboration you posted first...while the alkoxymerc is pretty simple and learning it will help you understand a number of similar reactions across double bonds.

Perhaps in your ochem class the aspects of reactions and synthesis dominate, but according to many DAT breakdowns here, it's the opposite. Where we're being bombarded with concept questions, understanding acidity/alkalinity, leaving groups, polarity, etc. Best of luck.

Cheers

 

[jonishere5]

Many of the rxns react similarly. I would try and group the "like" reactions once you have a good list of all the rxns you need to remember.

The big things to look into would be SN1, SN2, E1, E2. Also from what I have seen is the mechanism is not a big part of what you will be tested on. Mostly its just predict the products and you are given reaction conditions.

Also try and group all the Oxidation and reaction reactions as well, that will help out big time.

Good Luck!

 

[AmpJBieberblast]

Many of the rxns react similarly. I would try and group the "like" reactions once you have a good list of all the rxns you need to remember.

The big things to look into would be SN1, SN2, E1, E2. Also from what I have seen is the mechanism is not a big part of what you will be tested on. Mostly its just predict the products and you are given reaction conditions.

Also try and group all the Oxidation and reaction reactions as well, that will help out big time.

Good Luck!

cool thats wat i thought. thank you guys 🙂