CHEM 3601

Chemistry of Living Systems

Lec 01 and Lab B01 selected

The chemical principles governing a wide variety of biological processes are discussed. Structure and mechanism are emphasized in explanations and predictions of the behavior of organic compounds in nature. Specific topics include proteins, activation of carboxyl groups, peptide synthesis and biosynthesis, enzyme catalysis, coenzymes and prochirality.

Sections

Lecture
Lab, pick one

From the syllabus

From the Winter 2026 syllabus by Alexander Baker and Reinaldo Moya Barrios. Open the PDF

Grading

10%Quizzes (4)2.5% each
5%Assignment
30%Midterm tests (2)15% each
25%Final examinationCumulative; minimum 40% required to pass
30%Laboratory (4)Minimum 15/30 required to pass

Textbooks

  • Organic Chemistry, 8th edition, Paula Yurkanis Bruice (optional)
  • Biochemistry, 8th edition, Emine Ercikan Abali, Susan D. Cline, David S. Franklin, Susan Viselli, Denise R. Ferrier (optional)

Course rules

Assignment late work
Late work loses 20% per day, up to 60%; submissions later than three days are not graded.
Missed quizzes
There are no make-up quizzes; a missed quiz earns zero unless other arrangements are made with the instructor.
Missed midterms
No make-up midterms; a missed midterm's weight moves to the final, but at least one midterm must be written to take it.
Missed final
A documented, justifiable absence may allow one make-up final; contact the instructor by the exam date or within 24 hours.
Lab attendance
Laboratory attendance and completion of all experiments are required to pass the lab component.
Lab late work
Laboratory reports lose 10% per day late.
Lab safety
Approved safety glasses and a 100% cotton long-sleeved lab coat are required in the lab.
Academic work
All graded work and lab reports must be completed independently; non-independent work receives zero.
Lab reports and AI
AI tools may support learning but may not be used to produce lab reports.
Course materials
Do not share or upload course materials to third parties; doing so may result in an F in the course.

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