ORC-31303 Research Methods in Organic Chemistry

Course

Credits 3.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

ORC-20306 Bio-organic Chemistry; and ORC-11806 Analytical methods in Organic Chemistry.

Contents:

This advanced practical course is aimed to introduce students to modern research methods in organic chemistry. Depending on the interests of the student and available projects emphasis can be on synthesis, spectroscopy, chromatography, physical characterization, molecular modelling and preferably a combination of those. The subjects are closely related to research projects that are currently under investigation at the Laboratory of Organic Chemistry.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- perform, set up and monitor advanced organic chemistry experiments in a safe way using conditions like low temperatures (-78 °C), exclusion of air and moisture, or use of highly reactive reagents like organometallics, hydrides;
- obtain the pure reaction product(s) by using appropriate isolation and purification techniques like extraction, distillation, chromatography and/or recrystallization;
- identify the structure of the product(s) by recording and interpreting relevant spectra (NMR, infrared and mass) and determining and comparing its physical properties;
- explain the experimental approach and outcome of reactions by describing and explaining the reaction mechanism and consulting literature sources;
- present experimental results and theory in an oral presentation and a written report.

Activities:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- set up, perform and work out experiments and measurements;
- study relevant literature;
- write a report and give a short oral presentation about the conducted research for fellow students.

Examination:

- the final mark is determined by the practical performance (33%);
- the quality of the report (67%).
The minimum mark for each part is 5.50.

Literature:

None.