This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The ability to examine a molecule through the lens of retrosynthetic analysis, and subsequent delineation of a feasible series of reactions to generate the target molecule, is an essential tool in all areas of Synthetic Chemistry. The topic finds its fullest expression in the total synthesis of complex molecules such as natural products. Students will make use of the full repertoire of reactions they have compiled to date, but new reactions may also be delivered. The development of synthetic schemes will be taught. Exposure will be given to consideration of functional group compatibility, convergent and template-directed synthesis, protecting group strategies, strategies devoid of protecting groups, and non-covalent approaches. In-depth exposure to chirality and carbon-carbon bond forming reactions, and their application in small molecule synthesis will be covered. Much of the teaching will be delivered through use of important examples. Comprehensive literature searching as a means to problem solving will be emphasised. The aim of this module is to deliver advanced concepts of modern synthetic chemistry and the introduction of these concepts in the synthesis of complex molecular targets.
Private Study: 124
Contact Hours: 26
Total: 150
Not available as an elective module
• Project Outline – 8%
• Synthetic and Mechanistic Analysis – 12%
• Examination (2 hours) – 80%*
* The examination must be passed in order to complete the module.
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices. The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the concepts, terminology, theory, and methods in relation to advanced molecular synthesis.
2. Demonstrate full knowledge and understanding of areas of chemistry including properties of chemical elements, organic functional groups, identification of different forms of chirality, and an array of chemical transformations used in synthetic chemistry.
3. Demonstrate broad knowledge and understanding of developments at the forefront of some areas of organic chemistry, particularly compatibility between chemical reactions and functional groups present during synthetic route to challenging target molecules, including the use of templates.
4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, principles and theories relating to the subject and to use it to solve qualitative and quantitative problems. In particular, the ability to link chemical structure to reaction compatibility and sequence.
5. Analyse and solve problems strategically through the evaluation, interpretation and synthesis of scientific information.
6. Use data-processing skills to search for, assess, and interpret chemical information and data, particularly through comprehensive literature searches.
7. Recognise the motivation and mentality behind total synthesis and appreciate approaches at the forefront of molecular chemistry.
8. Perform retrosynthetic analysis on a molecule, taking into consideration chirality, functional group compatibility, efficiency, and feasibility of starting materials.
9. Understand the concepts involved in a wide range of organic transformations, including carbon-carbon bond forming reactions, chiral reactions, templation, and protecting group strategies.
10. Apply this knowledge in the chemistry of some simple multi-step targeted syntheses.
11. Make use of appropriate texts, or other learning resources, to determine the optimal synthetic route.
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