What does the term "retro synthesis" refer to in organic chemistry?

The term "retro synthesis" refers specifically to the process of planning a synthesis by breaking down a complex molecule into simpler precursors. This approach is fundamental in organic chemistry because it allows chemists to work backward from a target molecule to identify possible starting materials and intermediates needed for its construction. By deconstructing the target molecule, chemists can consider various pathways and strategies to assemble the desired compound efficiently.

Retro synthesis involves analyzing the structure of the target molecule to propose various bonding changes, functional group transformations, and appropriate starting materials, often visualized through a synthetic tree or flowchart. It not only aids in determining the feasibility of synthesizing a compound but also encourages creative thinking in the design of synthetic routes. Therefore, the concept of retro synthesis is crucial in organic chemistry to strategize the assembly of complex molecules from simpler ones.