Why take organic chemistry?
Organic compounds
Organic chemistry is the study of carbon containing compounds. These are
by far the most numerous compounds as evidenced by approximately 12 million
organic compounds out of 15 million total compounds recognized as of the mid
1990's. Most biologically interesting compounds are the organic compounds.
Key to understanding other courses
The structures and reactivity of organic compounds pave the way to understanding
how they fit in other fields such as biological systems, environmental systems,
materials science/plastics, fuels, etc.
Mastering organic chemistry demonstrates abilities
Successfully completing organic chemistry requires the ability to comprehend and
apply large amounts of previously unfamiliar concepts using new terminology and
symbols. You must also rely on sophisticated problem-solving skills
including logical thinking, assessing the relative importance of a variety of
information, and choosing among numerous theoretical models of which some may
give conflicting answers.
Relevance to professional programs
Medical, dental, pharmacy, physical therapy, and many other professional
programs rely on the content provided in organic chemistry, the demonstrated
ability to succeed in the course, the necessary paradigms and ability to apply
concepts developed in the course for students to succeed in these post-graduate
programs.
How is organic chemistry different from introductory chemistry?
Much of introductory chemistry may have been familiar to you, while organic chemistry will use concepts that are quite different from those you have previously encountered. Quantitative skills (math) and descriptions dominated introductory chemistry while symbols and logical thought through many steps of cause and effect are important in organic chemistry. A national study showed that students who were successful in organic chemistry spent approximately 5.8 hours per week studying textbook resources (homework problems, study guides, etc) while only 4.1 hours in introductory chemistry. Additional hours were necessary for the laboratory component. Finally, the some of the knowledge and skills, and more importantly, the chemical perspective gained from introductory chemistry must be carried over and used as the starting point to the organic chemistry material.
Despite the fact that you rely on your command of introductory chemistry to succeed in organic chemistry, the best predictor of success in organic chemistry is your overall GPA. Success in CHEM3412 relies heavily on your command of CHEM3411 material. Typically over 50% of students who earned a C in CHEM3411 will have a D, F, W, or WF in CHEM3412.