Strategy common atom

The most important point in analysing the synthesis of a hydrocarbon is where to put the carbonyl group, and this can depend on features other than common atoms. What strategies might you use in the synthesis of TM 377 ... 

Strategies based on some special topological features, such as the presence of "strategic bonds" and/or "common atoms" which apply preferentially to sesquiterpene compounds (as, for instance, longifolene, patchouli alcohol, seychellene, sativene, etc.) and non-natural compounds with a high degree of internal connectivity as, for example, twistane, bullvalene, etc. 

A logical extension of this strategy, particularly important for bridged polycyclic compounds, is the common atom approach. Atoms common to two or more rings (the common atoms) are marked disconnections of bonds to these atoms must inevitably reduce the number of rings. 

Mastering some study strategies in preparing for an organic chemistry exam Avoiding the mistakes commonly made on exams Remembering that a carbon atom has four bonds... 

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