Second Year Organic Chemistry (CMY 284) Review Flashcards

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms and definitions related to second-year organic chemistry concepts, including resonance, hybridization, conjugation, and aromaticity.

Resonance

A phenomenon in which compounds are represented by multiple structures that depict electron delocalization.

Resonance Structures

Different ways of drawing the same compound that differ in the arrangement of π bonds and lone pair electrons.

Hybridization

The concept describing the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals for bonding.

Conjugation

The overlap of p orbitals across adjacent atoms, allowing for delocalized electrons and lower molecular energy.

Aromaticity

A property of cyclic, planar compounds with complete conjugation and $(4n + 2)$ π electrons, making them particularly stable.

Hückel’s Rule

A rule that determines the aromatic nature of a molecule or ion based on its cyclic, planar structure and the presence of $(4n + 2)$ π electrons.

Delocalization

The distribution of electron density across several atoms or bonds, contributing to the stability of resonance forms.

Polar Covalent Bond

A bond between two atoms where the electrons are shared unequally, resulting in partial charges.

Sp2 Hybridization

The hybridization of carbon atoms in benzene, allowing for the formation of a planar structure with one unhybridized p orbital.

Allylic Resonance

A type of resonance that occurs when there is a lone pair or charge adjacent to a double bond.

Electrophile

An atom or molecule that is attracted to electrons and can accept an electron pair.

Nucleophile

An atom or molecule that donates an electron pair to form a chemical bond.

Electronegativity

A measure of the tendency of an atom to attract a bonding pair of electrons.

Stability of Resonance Structures

The stability of a resonance form is determined by charge distribution, octet fulfillment, and electronegativity of atoms.

Electrons in p Orbitals

Electrons that occupy p orbitals can participate in resonance, while those in s orbitals cannot.