During this week, our DP1 chemistry students have elevated their exploration of organic chemistry by digging dipper into the world of nomenclature. They have focused on naming different homologous series, such as carboxylic acids, esters, aldehydes, ketones, amines, nitriles and amides, expanding their understanding of these compounds and their systematic nomenclature.
Understanding nomenclature and functional groups in organic chemistry is of utmost importance in the Diploma chemistry. Nomenclature provides a systematic way to name and classify organic compounds, allowing students to communicate and identify different substances accurately. It serves as a common language for chemists, facilitating effective communication and comprehension of chemical structures.
It is worth emphasizing that incorporating the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) guidelines for naming these compounds fosters International mindedness, which is a fundamental aspect of the IB curriculum.
Knowledge of functional groups is crucial as these groups determine the chemical behavior and reactivity of organic compounds. By recognizing functional groups, students can predict the properties and reactions of various organic compounds, enabling them to make connections and understand the underlying principles of organic chemistry.
The students thoroughly enjoyed engaging in a delightful peer-to-peer teaching activity, wherein they taught and corrected each other. This interactive approach fostered a sense of enjoyment and also enhanced their understanding of naming various classes of organic compounds.
