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Double bonds prevent rotation, flattening the molecule (e.g., ethene).
Single bonds allow rotation (e.g., ethane).
Demonstrated the possibility of organic molecule formation without life.
Used a set-up mimicking pre-life Earth with water, methane, ammonia, hydrogen, and electric sparks.
Carbon's versatility in bonding allows for the diversity of organic compounds essential for life.
Urea: Contains carbon and nitrogen, component of urine, showcases diverse bonding in organic molecules.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Carbon double bonded to oxygen, relevant for respiration and photosynthesis.
These elements make up 96% of living organisms.
Prefers forming bonds with hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen.
Importance of molecular arrangement and the impact of double bonds on molecular structure.
Single vs. Double Bonds:
Tetrahedral Shape: Common in simple organic molecules like methane and ethane.
Can share electrons to fulfill the octet rule, allowing complex molecules.
Carbon has 6 electrons: 2 in the first shell, 4 in the valence shell.
Stanley Miller's Experiment: Simulated early Earth conditions, produced amino acids abiotically.
German Chemist's Experiment: Accidental synthesis of urea in an abiotic system.
Mechanism: Current view that physical/chemical laws govern all natural phenomena.
Vitalism: Early belief that life-force outside physical and chemical laws was necessary for life.
Debate on whether hydrogen must be present alongside carbon for a compound to be considered organic.
Includes both small molecules and large macromolecules.
Study of carbon-containing compounds.
Essential for complex molecule formation such as proteins, DNA, carbohydrates, and lipids.
Carbon's valence of four allows it to form up to four covalent bonds.
Focus on carbon-based compounds.
Transitioning from basic chemistry to organic chemistry.
Conclusion
Examples of Carbon-Based Molecules
Carbon's Binding Partners
Isomers
Shapes and Structures of Organic Molecules
Carbon's Electron Configuration
Key Historical Experiments
Historical Perspective: Vitalism vs. Mechanism
Definition and Scope of Organic Chemistry
Importance of Carbon
Overview
Lecture Notes: Introduction to Organic Chemistry