Basic Concepts in Organic Stereochemistry

Book excerpt: This book discusses essential stereochemical concepts associated with organic molecules (natural or synthetic), as reflected in the course of their many reactions, their mechanisms, their asymmetric synthesis, biosynthesis, and biological activities. This treatise provides useful insights and understanding of the chiral/achiral designations (nomenclatures), the stereochemical features, and related properties of the natural and synthetic products. Without having an adequate knowledge of stereochemical concepts, it will not be possible to understand and appreciate the stereochemistry of natural or synthetic products. Thus, essential static and dynamic aspects of stereochemistry with sufficient illustrative examples along with discussions are presented. The structure of the monograph allows for easy selection of separate topics for reading and teaching. This book will also provide an idea of basic stereochemical concepts, as applied to organic molecules in general as well as to organic ligands in coordination complexes, and will, therefore, be valuable resources to teachers and students of advanced undergraduates and post-graduates, researchers, and professionals.