In this episode, Sam Smith will discuss and help you understand the essential organic chemistry mechanisms and reactions you may encounter when taking the MCAT.

From nucleophilic substitution reactions like SN1 and SN2 to aldol condensation and oxidation and reduction of alcohols, Sam will cover the high-yield topics that are crucial for your test prep. He will also touch on key IR and NMR values that could appear on your exam. 

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Jump into the conversation: 

(00:00) Intro

(01:42) SN1 and SN2 nucleophilic substitution reactions, mechanisms, and key concepts

(03:18) Carbonyl substitution and addition reactions

(06:12) Introduction to aldol condensation reactions

(07:17) Overview of oxidation and reduction reactions

(10:09) Explanation of Fischer esterification and saponification

(12:51) Summary of elimination reactions (E1 and E2) and their distinguishing features.

(13:38) What numbers to know for IR and NMR