CHEM& 131 - Introduction to Organic and Biological Chemistry

5 Credits
Introduction to organic chemistry and biochemistry includes study of the nomenclature, structure, reactions and synthesis of organic compounds and biochemistry applications in nursing field. Structure and properties of the major classes of organic compounds with particular reference to organic molecules and their relationship to polymers, such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Course is primarily intended for those who are interested in the application of the principles of organic chemistry and biochemistry to related areas of science such as genetics, microbiology, physiology, and nutrition. Course learning involves lectures and labs.

General education distribution area: Natural Science, with lab.

Prerequisite(s): Completion of CHEM& 121 , with a 2.0 or higher, or instructor permission.

Course Outcomes

Describe organic chemistry in terms of the role of carbon in organic compounds and biomolecules.
Identify and classify different types of hydrocarbon e.g. alkanes, alkenes, alkynes and cycloalkanes.
Classify and predict names and draw structures of different types of aromatic compounds.
Identify and classify major organic functional groups and recognize their presence in biological molecules.
Name and draw structures of the major classes of organic compounds with understanding of nomenclature and terminology of various organic structures such as hydrocarbons, alcohols, carboxylic acids, ethers, esters, amines and amides.
Predict the outcome of common organic and biochemical reactions like combustion and addition reaction for hydrocarbons and electrophilic substitution reaction of aromatic compounds.
Identify, classify, and explain the properties and chemical reactions of different types of alcohols, carboxylic acids and carbonyl compounds.
Define and recognize the different types of isomerism, including geometric, stereo, and constitutional.
Identify and classify biologically important organic compounds and understand their function in the body.
Recognize structural differences between various types of biomolecules, such as lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and proteins, and identify their basic building blocks.
Explain carbohydrate metabolic pathways and protein synthesis processes.
Identify the properties and functions of enzymes and various factors that can affect enzyme activity.
Perform basic organic chemistry and biochemistry laboratory experiments and techniques with a diverse team, using common laboratory equipment appropriately according to standard laboratory safety precautions.
Communicate the results of laboratory work, including reasoning effectively, both orally and through formal and informal writings and reports.