Use when reasoning about polar organic reaction mechanisms, arrow pushing, SN1/SN2/E1/E2, nucleophile/electrophile identification, Zaitsev/Hofmann selectivity, HSAB rules, or retrosynthesis. Applies the EASE framework step-by-step.
Source: AceOrganicChem.com Ace Organic Chemistry Mechanisms with E.A.S.E. (2013) + standard references (Clayden, March).
Any polar organic mechanism or synthesis problem. Apply EASE iteratively — one step at a time, rinse and repeat.
E — Electrophile Identify E+ and Nu−. Use resonance if unclear.
A — Acid/Base Strong acid/base present? Move proton FIRST before continuing.
S — Sterics Bulky group on Nu or E+? Reassess: block / carbocation / overcome.
E — Electron Flow Nu− → E+. Draw curved arrows. Check valence. Done?
If not, repeat from Step 1 with new intermediates.
| File | Content |
|---|
ease-framework.md | Full step-by-step logic, decision rules, worked examples |
electrophiles-nucleophiles.md | Identification rules, pKa table, nucleophilicity scales |
sterics-substitution.md | SN1/SN2/E1/E2 decision tree, steric groups, Zaitsev/Hofmann |
electron-flow.md | Arrow pushing, HSAB (1,2 vs 1,4), intra vs inter, stereochemistry |
retrosynthesis.md | Disconnections, synthons, FGI, toolbox (C–C / C–X / FGI) |
method-limits.md | When EASE fails: RedOx table, radicals, organometallics |
"What is the mechanism?" → ease-framework.md
"Which product forms?" → sterics-substitution.md (SN/E) or electron-flow.md (HSAB)
"How do I make X from Y?" → retrosynthesis.md
"Reagent does something weird" → method-limits.md
"I can't find the nucleophile" → electrophiles-nucleophiles.md (draw resonance structures)
Electrons always flow from nucleophile to electrophile. Arrows point to where electrons are going. If you cannot identify a nucleophile, draw all resonance structures first.