Summary Organic chemistry CIE A level notes

Organic chemistry A level: Here’s an outline of the major areas: 1. Introduction to Organic Chemistry • General formulae, empirical formula, molecular formula, and structural formulae. • Functional groups and homologous series. • Nomenclature (naming organic compounds). • Types of isomerism: • Structural isomerism (chain, positional, functional group). • Stereoisomerism (geometric and optical). 2. Hydrocarbons • Alkanes: • Structure and properties. • Free-radical substitution reactions. • Combustion (complete and incomplete). • Alkenes: • Structure and properties. • Addition reactions (hydrogenation, halogenation, hydration). • Electrophilic addition mechanisms. • Polymerization (addition polymers). • Aromatic compounds: • Benzene structure and delocalization. • Electrophilic substitution reactions (nitration, halogenation). 3. Halogenoalkanes (Haloalkanes) • Nucleophilic substitution reactions. • Elimination reactions. • Mechanisms of substitution (SN1 and SN2). • Uses and environmental impact (e.g., CFCs). 4. Alcohols • Physical properties (hydrogen bonding, boiling points). • Reactions: • Combustion. • Oxidation (primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols). • Esterification. • Substitution to form halogenoalkanes. • Tests for alcohols. 5. Aldehydes and Ketones • Nucleophilic addition reactions. • Oxidation of aldehydes. • Reduction of aldehydes and ketones. • Tests for aldehydes and ketones (e.g., Tollens’ and Fehling’s tests).