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Spectroscopy of Simple Molecules
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Abstract
In recent years, many college and university instructors have introduced new experiments to revitalize the general chemistry curriculum and attract and retain students in the sciences. In particular, laboratory experiments using modern instrumentatal techniques, normally reserved for upper-level students, are becoming more widely adopted in the first-year course because modern instrumentation can be used to demonstrate theoretical concepts taught in the lecture. Many of these laboratory exercises involve spectroscopy, which is ubiquitous in all fields of chemistry. We describe here a spectroscopy experiment developed at Providence College in which students utilize IR and NMR spectroscopy to identify the structures of three unknowns from a list of 15 carefully chosen simple organic molecules. In taking IR and NMR spectra, students learn to use state-of-the-art instrumentation that is used by practicing chemists. The unknown determination provides a framework upon which students can practice their deductive reasoning skills, as they must think carefully about the three-dimensional structures of the molecules as they determine the identity of the unknowns. Students also have a chance to practice their writing skills as they logically present their rationale for their unknown determination. The use of modern instrumentation also communicates the excitement associated with chemistry laboratory work.
Keywords (Audience):
First-Year Undergraduate / GeneralKeywords (Domain):
Laboratory InstructionKeywords (Pedagogy):
Hands-On Learning / ManipulativesKeywords (Subject):
Instrumental MethodsCiting Articles
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This article has been cited by 8 ACS Journal articles (5 most recent appear below).
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Peer Mentoring in the General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry Laboratories. The Pinacol Rearrangement: An Exercise in NMR and IR Spectroscopy for General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry Laboratories
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Caleb A. Arrington , Jameica B. Hill , Ramin Radfar , David M. Whisnant and Charles G. BassJournal of Chemical Education2008 85 (2), 288This article describes a discovery experiment for general chemistry and organic chemistry labs. Although the pinacol rearrangement has been employed in undergraduate organic laboratories before, in this application organic chemistry students act as ...
Organic Spectroscopy Laboratory: Utilizing IR and NMR in the Identification of an Unknown Substance
Timothy D. Shine and Neil M. GlagovichJournal of Chemical Education2005 82 (9), 1382Organic Spectroscopy Laboratory: Utilizing IR and NMR in the Identification of an Unknown Substance
Timothy D. Shine and Neil M. GlagovichJournal of Chemical Education2005 82 (9), 1382An undergraduate organic laboratory designed to teach the use of IR and NMR spectra interpretation in the identification of an unknown substance has been developed. This laboratory requires the student to obtain the IR spectrum of an unknown substance and,...
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- Received: August 03, 2009
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