Topic 51: Reactions of alkenes - addition of Br2 with and without solvent

51.1What evidence supports the hypothesis that when Br2 reacts with an alkene, a “bromonium” ion is formed initially? [We say that the reaction “goes through” a bromonium ion.]
 
51.2What happens when we carry out the reaction of Br2 and an alkene in the presence of water or other aprotic solvent, such as methanol or ethanol?
 
51.3Is the reaction of Br2 with an alkene an example of syn addition or anti addition?
 

Topic 52: Reactions of alkenes - hydroboration/oxidation

52.1What is so special about the reaction of borane (BH3) with an alkene?
 
52.2What is the essence of this mechanism?
 
52.3Is this reaction an example of syn addition or anti addition?
 
52.4After hydroboration is complete, we have an alkyl borane. What are two extraordinarily useful reactions of organoboranes? (check the web)
 
52.5What problem did the invention of hydroboration/oxidation solve in the history of chemistry?
 
8 questions
364 questions for Organic I

364 Questions for Organic I

Dearest Student. This web page is a set of questions I call Detailed Intended Learning Outcomes For Organic Chemistry (Part I). Some time ago I asked myself, "Bob, what do you think are the key questions that you hope students will be able to answer after taking Chemistry 247 at St. Olaf College?" So here you have them. Some are very simple; some require more thought. All are good questions to be thinking about as you read, discuss, and master the practical aspects of organic chemistry. They are discussion starters and review tips. There are no answers here (though there are some clues). The questions are here to help you focus on what's important (to me, at least!) and organize your learning process. The questions are grouped into topics. Bite-size chunks. Take them a few at a time. Don't feast on them all at one sitting!

(preliminary version 2021.01.15 feeback: Bob Hanson)