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Department of Chemistry, Unit Catalogue 2007/08


CH30141 Topics in catalysis for organic synthesis

Credits: 3
Level: Honours
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX100
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take CH20014 and take CH30070 and take CH30071 and in taking this unit you cannot take CH40141
Aims: To describe and demonstrate recent techniques in the application of catalysis to the synthesis of organic molecules. To illustrate how either metal-complexes or organocatalysts can be applied to the asymmetric synthesis of valuable intermediates.
Learning Outcomes:
After studying the Unit, students should be able to:
* Describe a range of catalytic systems for achieving important synthetic transformations
* Account for the importance of asymmetric catalysis in organic synthesis
* Integrate catalytic techniques with retrosynthetic analysis to introduce new stereocentres to organic molecules
* Apply the techniques introduced in this unit to the synthesis of complex molecules.
Skills:
Problem solving (T, F, A), Scientific writing (F, A), Independent working (F).
Content:
The development of chiral Lewis acids and their application in a range of synthetic transformations. A complementary approach to asymmetric synthesis using organocatalysis. Enantioselective palladium and rhodium catalysed carbon-carbon bond forming processes. A review of recent developments in the area of catalysis applied to organic synthesis. The application of catalysis to the synthesis of complex molecules.