Expert Organic Chemistry Tutor with innovative teaching techniques and engaging curriculum methods.

The tutor and student focused on foundational trigonometry concepts, including the definition of trigonometric functions in right-angled triangles and the calculation of sine, cosine, and tangent ratios. They also practiced identifying triangle sides based on the angle of consideration and briefly reviewed the Pythagorean theorem.

The Student and Tutor discussed IR spectroscopy, focusing on the interpretation of IR spectra and the identification of different types of molecular vibrations. The student practiced matching IR spectra to different molecules based on functional group peaks. The plan is to review NMR and address any remaining questions in the next session; the student will send practice problems beforehand.

The Student and Tutor discussed various organic chemistry reactions and mechanisms, including PCC oxidation, amine reactions with carbonyls, esterification, Wittig reactions, epoxide ring opening, and the use of protecting groups. Resonance structures and directing effects were reviewed. The session involved problem-solving and mechanistic analysis, with a focus on applying these concepts to synthesis problems.

The session focused on reactions involving Grignard reagents, including their use in synthesizing carboxylic acids, ketones, and aldehydes. The Student also reviewed Williamson ether synthesis, including retro-synthesis and Fisher esterification mechanisms. The session concluded with cyanohydrin formation and conversions of nitriles to other functional groups; the Student will cover lactone formation, Wittig reagents, and acetal/ketal formation in the next session.

The Student and Tutor reviewed Grignard reagents, covering their definition, synthesis, reactivity, and various reactions with active hydrogens, carbonyl compounds (aldehydes and ketones), epoxides, dry ice, and nitriles. They practiced predicting reaction products and discussed the underlying mechanisms, including a brief introduction to the SN2 mechanism for alkylation. For future sessions, the Student will provide syllabus details regarding stereoselectivity, and the next class is planned to cover Infrared (IR) Spectroscopy.