Why Is Ochem So Hard? The Benefits of Learning Organic Chemistry Additional Resources
Organic chemistry (ochem) is widely considered one of the most challenging subjects for undergraduate students in the sciences. The subject of organic chemistry is the study of the structure, properties, and reactions of organic molecules, which are any molecules that contain carbon. It is a branch of chemistry that is essential for understanding many aspects of the natural world, including the chemistry of life.
There are many factors that contribute to the difficulty of organic chemistry:
The abstract nature of organic chemistry
Organic chemistry is a highly abstract subject. The concepts that are involved in organic chemistry are often difficult to visualize, which can make it difficult for students to understand them. For example, the concept of resonance is a key concept in organic chemistry, but it can be difficult for students to understand how resonance works because it is a quantum mechanical concept.
The large number of reactions and mechanisms in organic chemistry
Organic chemistry involves a large number of reactions and mechanisms. This can make it difficult for students to keep track of all of the different reactions and mechanisms, and to understand how they are related to each other. For example, there are over 100 different named reactions in organic chemistry, and each of these reactions has its own unique mechanism.
The difficulty of organic chemistry problems
Organic chemistry problems can be very difficult to solve. This is because organic chemistry problems often involve multiple steps, and each step must be carried out correctly in order to solve the problem. For example, a typical organic chemistry problem might involve identifying the product of a reaction, and then drawing the mechanism for the reaction.
The lack of prior knowledge in organic chemistry
Organic chemistry is a subject that builds on a lot of prior knowledge. This means that students who have not had a strong foundation in general chemistry and physics will likely find organic chemistry to be very difficult. For example, students who have not had a strong foundation in thermodynamics will likely find it difficult to understand the concept of equilibrium in organic chemistry.
The need for problem-solving skills in organic chemistry
Organic chemistry requires students to have strong problem-solving skills. This is because organic chemistry problems often involve multiple steps, and each step must be carried out correctly in order to solve the problem. For example, a typical organic chemistry problem might involve identifying the product of a reaction, and then drawing the mechanism for the reaction.
How to succeed in organic chemistry
Despite the challenges, there are a number of things that students can do to succeed in organic chemistry. These include:
- Study regularly. Organic chemistry is a subject that requires consistent study. Students who try to cram for organic chemistry exams will likely find themselves struggling.
- Attend class and take notes. Class is an important opportunity to learn about organic chemistry and to ask questions. Students who skip class or who do not take notes will likely find themselves struggling.
- Do the homework problems. The homework problems are an important part of the learning process in organic chemistry. Students who do not do the homework problems will likely find themselves struggling.
- Get help from a tutor or professor. If you are struggling in organic chemistry, do not be afraid to get help from a tutor or professor. A tutor or professor can help you to understand the concepts of organic chemistry and to solve problems.
Conclusion
Organic chemistry is a challenging subject, but it is also a very rewarding subject. Organic chemistry is essential for understanding many aspects of the natural world, including the chemistry of life. If you are willing to put in the work, you can succeed in organic chemistry.
There are many benefits to learning organic chemistry. These include:
- Organic chemistry is essential for understanding the chemistry of life. Organic molecules are the building blocks of life, and organic chemistry is essential for understanding how cells function.
- Organic chemistry is used in the development of new drugs and materials. Organic chemistry is used to develop new drugs, new materials, and new products.
- Organic chemistry is a valuable skill for many careers. Organic chemistry is a valuable skill for many careers in the sciences, including medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and engineering.
