This course provides a direct continuation of Organic Chemistry I (CHEM-202) and develops and extends many of the concepts and approaches developed therein. Topics include stereochemistry, substitution and elimination reactions, conformational analysis, addition reactions of multiple bonds, substitution reactions of aromatic systems, and a broad extension of the carbonyl chemistry introduced in the preceding class. Consideration will be given to the development of organic syntheses of specific materials and attendant issues of compatibility and selectivity in reaction choice.

This course provides a direct continuation of Organic Chemistry I (CHEM-202) and develops and extends many of the concepts and approaches developed therein. Topics include stereochemistry, substitution and elimination reactions, conformational analysis, addition reactions of multiple bonds, substitution reactions of aromatic systems, and a broad extension of the carbonyl chemistry introduced in the preceding class. Consideration will be given to the development of organic syntheses of specific materials and attendant issues of compatibility and selectivity in reaction choice.

RNA is believed by many to have been the first macromolecule to evolve. In a hypothesized "RNA world," RNA would have simultaneously served the roles of carrying genetic information and catalyzing chemical reactions within early cells. The past three decades have been a renaissance for RNA biology, as researchers have uncovered the critical role RNA plays in eukaryotic and bacterial gene regulation and defense, as well as the potential for RNAs to perform catalysis.