Reaction archetypes

Since just a few mechanistic reaction types form the core of an organic course, we strive to understand these important reaction archetypes. What does the problem space for each archetype look like, and how do the reactant structure and reaction conditions influence the most favored route ... 

Figure 4.1 Examples of the four different reaction archetypes...

Use the appropriate electron flow pathway to rationalize the product of these reactions. First, decide which of the four reaction archetypes has occurred. These mechanisms have only one electron source and one sink present in the reaction mixture. 

Chapter 3 covered the proton transfer electron flow path and reviewed the factors that contribute to acidity. Chapter 4 introduced all the rest of the major electron flow paths along with the four reaction archetypes, substitution, elimination, addition, and rearrangement. This chapter gathers together all the major electron flow paths, introduces a few minor paths, and reviews common path combinations. Section 7.4, Variations on a Theme, shows how the 18 electron flow paths might be reasonably extended and modified. 

Classify into generic sources sinks Find most reactive source sink Recall how the generic groups react Identify probable reaction archetype... 

Use reaction archetype to choose pathways Combine best electrophile nucleophile Watch for decisions like base vs. Nu... 

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