Modules for Introducing Organometallic Reactions: A Bridge between Organic and Inorganic Chemistry

Abstract

Transition metal organometallic reactions have become increasingly important in the synthesis of organic molecules. A new approach has been developed to introduce organometallic chemistry, along with organic and inorganic chemistry, at the foundational level. This change highlights applications of organometallic chemistry that have dramatically evolved in recent decades. With this development, a larger number of students have been reached than would typically be exposed to organometallic reactions. Modules are described that introduce transition metal organometallic compounds and reactions by analogy with thematically similar topics in general chemistry and organic chemistry. These topics are periodically reinforced by incorporation into organic synthesis problems.

Reactivity II: A Second Foundation-Level Course in Integrated Organic, Inorganic, and Biochemistry

“…The inclusion of coordination chemistry brings additional examples of enthalpy and entropy changes and also facilitates discussion of the role of Lewis acids in biochemical reactions. In addition, close parallels are found between organic carbonyl chemistry and the reactivity of transition metal carbonyls in organometallics; a description of this coverage has been reported previously …”

“…In addition, close parallels are found between organic carbonyl chemistry and the reactivity of transition metal carbonyls in organometallics; a description of this coverage has been reported previously. 25 As in the case of its prerequisite, Chem 251: Reactivity II was designed so that new ideas would build on familiar concepts as much as possible. A precedent for this approach can be found in Novak's theory of meaningful learning.…”

“…26 A first-semester treatment of carbonyl chemistry had been introduced around 2000, similar to an approach used by others. 25 Modules on organometallic reactions had also been tried on campus in the early 2000s. In addition, other faculty members were asked for contributions to both the online and workbook endeavors, usually in the form of old classroom worksheets or old test questions for use as practice problems.…”

“…An early (September or October) introduction to spectroscopy had been implemented in the late 1990s; this approach has also been used by instructors at other institutions . A first-semester treatment of carbonyl chemistry had been introduced around 2000, similar to an approach used by others . Modules on organometallic reactions had also been tried on campus in the early 2000s.…”

Reactivity I: A Foundation-Level Course for Both Majors and Nonmajors in Integrated Organic, Inorganic, and Biochemistry

“…For example, in organic chemistry, a spectroscopy-first approach had been in use for at least 15 years, and an early introduction to carbonyls for about 10. Short modules had previously been used on bioorganic and organometallic chemistry, 31 as well. These developments made it easier to transition to a new curriculum, but complicate assessment of the change.…”