ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I

LESSON 4

Introduction to Thermodynamics

Why do some organic chemistry reactions proceed almost completely while others barely occur? In this lesson, we’ll use thermodynamics and acid–base equilibria to begin to identify why reactions happen. We’ll connect molecular stability to reaction favorability, interpret the equilibrium constant Keq, and compare the stability of carbanions and oxyanions using electronegativity.

Finished watching? Start with the Knowledge Checkpoint, then move on to the Challenge Problems.

Lecture Notes

Follow Cole's notes in a downloadable, printable format.

Knowledge Checkpoint

Make sure the central concepts have clicked.

Challenge Problems

Apply the concepts in less familiar situations.