Stereochemistry is defined as the study of the three-dimensional structure of molecules. Stereochemical considerations are important in both isomerism and studies of the mechanisms of chemical reactions. Implicit in a mechanism is the stereochemistry of the reaction: in other words, the relative three-dimensional orientation of the reacting particles at any time in the reaction. Concentrating on organic chemistry, early chapters deal mainly with definitions of terms such as chirality, enantiomers, diastereoisomers and racemization, complete with suitable examples to illustrate key concepts. Use of a polarimeter and associated definitions are described, together with two different conventions D, L and R, S for specification of configuration. Chirality without a stereogenic centre, in molecules such as allenes for example, is also covered. The distinction between conformation and configuration is developed to include assignment of configurations to di-substituted cyclohexanes and to the decalins. The conventions E, Z and Re, Si are introduced for sp2 hybridized carbons as found in alkenes and carbonyl compounds. Diastereotopic groups are discussed. Aspects of stereochemistry are explored through consideration of addition reactions to alkenes and carbonyl groups, nucleophilic substitution, and reactions (and interactions) involved in the resolution of racemic mixtures. Additional material is available on the website at www.rsc.org/tct Ideal for the needs of undergraduate chemistry students, Tutorial Chemistry Texts is a major series consisting of short, single topic or modular texts concentrating on the fundamental areas of chemistry taught in undergraduate science courses. Each book provides a concise account of the basic principles underlying a given subject, embodying an independent-learning philosophy and including worked examples.

About the Author
Professor Abel is an Emeritus Professor at the University of Exeter.

Reviews

"... well written with good illustrations and problems with solutions."

* Aslib Book Guide, Vol 66, No 10, October 2001 *

"... the book is ... certainly one that students will find very accessible and informative ... I shall certainly be recommending it ... in the strongest possible terms."

* Perkin Transactions 1, No 21, 7 November 2001, p 2884 *

"Chapters are easy to read and well illustrated and include questions with solutions. Instructors of courses ... and their students will certainly find the array of topics in this book and the presentation to be of interest."

* Journal of Chemical Education, 2002, 79, 167 *

"...a valuable, succinct compendium of stereochemical concepts in organic chemistry"

* The Times Higher Educational Supplement, 1 March 2002 *

"Instructors ... and their students will certainly find the array of topics in this book and the presentation to be of interest."

* Journal of Chemical Education, Vol 79, No 2, February 2002, p 167 *

"This is a well written text and a very useful addition to any undergraduate's book list ... A good read? I think so!"

* School Science Review, Issue No 309, 2003 *



Book Information
ISBN 9780854046027
Author Prof. E W Abel
Format Paperback
Page Count 178
Imprint Royal Society of Chemistry
Publisher Royal Society of Chemistry
Weight(grams) 550g