An introduction to the disconnection approach

Disconnections may involve either the carbon skeleton or functional groups. Normally the first step is to disconnect the sections of a molecule that are held together by functional groups such as esters, amides and acetals, as it is usually easier to find reconnection reactions for these functional groups. Heterolytic disconnections usually provide the most useful approach to synthesis design. 

Synthetic Organic Chemistry Wagner and Zook Lists reactions according to the functional group being produced. 

Oxidations in Organic Chemistry Hudlicky Lists and discusses transformations that can be brought about by oxidation. 

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