Aimed at undergraduate chemistry students, this clear and concise text is concerned with the reactions used in stereoselective organic synthesis. These are important types of reactions which can be used for the selective preparation of new organic compounds with a defined and predictable three dimensional architecture.

This clear and concise text is concerned with the reactions used in stereoselective organic synthesis. It sets out to consider the general principles upon which such reactions are founded, especially stereoelectronic effects, and how these are applied to a wide range of stereospecific and stereoselective organic reactions used in organic synthesis today. The general topics covered include: reactions of carbonyl compounds, aldol reactions, additions to C-C double bonds, oxidation and reduction, rearrangements, and enzyme catalysed hydrolysis. Reactions whose stereoselectivity is either substrate controlled, reagent controlled or controlled by a catalyst are covered, and where appropriate, examples of their application in organic synthesis are provided. Fully illustrated throughout, with set problems and suggestions for further reading to accompany each chapter, this informative text will be an invaluable study aid for all undergraduate chemistry students. Undergraduates in related subjects studying chemistry to second year level or higher will also find this book useful.