Unit 4 - Organic Materials (Structure and Functions)

Question 1

Retrosynthesis

Answer 1

A target molecule is broken up to two simpler precursor molecules
A restrosynthetic (backwards) arrow is used

Question 2

Considerations in devising a synthesis

Answer 2

In addition to simply identifying a possible reaction sequence, there are other considerations when planning a reaction pathways, including;
- the equilibrium position of a reaction can have considerable impact on the overall yield (less reaction steps is better)
- scaling up a reaction to an industrial scale
- the principles of green chemistry of the solvents required (more eco-friendly solutions)
- the by products that are formed

Question 3

Isomers in Synthesis

Answer 3

The formations of isomers and other by-prodcuts also needs to be considered; for example the substitution reaction of propane with chlorine produces a mix of isomers such as 1 & 2-chloropropane

Question 4

Purity

Answer 4

The final product needs to be purified by finding the best steps for synthesis and comparing mutiple paths
Including the methods of separation of the desired intermediate and final product from isomers and other by-products need to be determined

Question 5

Modify the Structure of a Compound - Solubility

Answer 5

Without affecting its properties
The solubility depends on:
- conditions inside the body, such as pH and temperature
- structure of the tablets or capsules
- nature of the packing ingredients in the tablet or capsule

Question 6

Altering the Solubility

Answer 6

The solubility of a drug can be improved by creating a derivative. Derivisation is a technique that tranforms a chemical into a product with a similar chemical structure and with the same properties but a different solubility