Course Information
Line Number 913140
Course Name CHEM314 - Advanced Organic Chemistry Lab
Course Description
The Course Description for Advanced Organic Chemistry Lab, featuring the listed experiments, might encompass the following topics: This laboratory course offers advanced practical experience in organic synthesis and reaction mechanisms, building upon the foundational knowledge gained in introductory organic chemistry courses. The experiments listed below are indicative of the sophisticated reactions and techniques covered in the course: 1. Dibenzalacetone by the Aldol Condensation: Students will explore the aldol condensation reaction, synthesizing dibenzalacetone from the condensation of two molecules of benzaldehyde in the presence of a base catalyst. This experiment emphasizes the formation of carbon-carbon bonds and stereochemical considerations. 2. Diels-Alder Reaction: Synthesis of Tetrahydrophthalic Anhydride: The Diels-Alder reaction, a powerful method for constructing cyclic compounds, will be employed to synthesize tetrahydrophthalic anhydride from a conjugated diene and a dienophile. This experiment highlights both the regioselectivity and stereoselectivity inherent in Diels-Alder reactions. 3. Synthesis of The Sweetener Dulcin from The Analgesic Acetaminophen: Students will engage in a multistep synthesis to transform the analgesic acetaminophen into the sweetener dulcin. This experiment involves various functional group transformations and purification techniques. 4. Dilantin® and Benzilic Acid from Benzaldehyde: Through a series of reactions including condensation, reduction, and rearrangement, students will synthesize Dilantin® (phenytoin) and benzilic acid from benzaldehyde. This experiment showcases the application of diverse synthetic strategies to access complex molecules. 5. Photoreduction of Benzophenone and Rearrangement of Benzpinacol to Benzopinacolone: Students will investigate photochemical reactions by performing the photoreduction of benzophenone to benzopinacol and subsequent rearrangement to benzopinacolone. This experiment underscores the role of light in driving chemical transformations and the mechanistic intricacies of photochemistry. Throughout the course, students will gain proficiency in advanced synthetic techniques, including inert atmosphere reactions, chromatographic separations, and spectroscopic analyses (such as IR, NMR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy) for compound characterization. Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking skills, experimental design, and interpretation of results. Additionally, students will explore the underlying principles governing organic reactions and mechanisms, deepening their understanding of organic chemistry concepts. Safety protocols and good laboratory practices will be strictly enforced to ensure a safe and productive learning environment.