University Chemistry ›› 2026, Vol. 41 ›› Issue (2): 400-410.doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202501004

• Between Teacher and Student • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Learning and Memorizing Common Named Reactions in College Organic Chemistry

Yuwei Song2, Wan He2, Kaiyue Jiang1, Mengzhao Xi2, Xinyue Wang1, Jie Li3, Yan Zhang1,2   

  1. 1 College of Chemistry and Materials, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004, Zhejiang Province, China;
    2 College of Teacher Education, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua 321004, Zhejiang Province, China;
    3 College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China
  • Received:2025-01-03 Accepted:2025-02-12 Published:2025-12-27
  • Contact: Yan Zhang E-mail:zhangyan001@zjnu.edu.cn

Abstract: Named reactions constitute a crucial component of undergraduate organic chemistry education. A thorough understanding of these reactions significantly enhances chemistry students' comprehension of the mechanisms underlying fundamental organic transformations. However, the dispersed presentation of named reactions in textbooks, coupled with insufficient systematic organization in teaching, often leads to student confusion and the development of avoidance behaviors due to perceived difficulty. To address these challenges, this study systematically organizes common organic chemistry named reactions, categorizing them based on principles including carbon atom addition/removal, functional group transformations, and shared reaction intermediates. Teaching practice demonstrates that students respond positively to and appreciate this structured approach to learning named reactions.

Key words: Organic chemistry, Named reactions, Inductive teaching, Functional groups, Reaction intermediates