A self-directed independent synthesis
experiment was developed
for a third-year undergraduate organic laboratory. Students were provided
with the CAS numbers of starting and target compounds and devised
a synthetic plan to be executed over two 4.5 h laboratory periods.
They consulted the primary literature in order to develop and carry
out an azlactone synthesis incorporating green chemistry principles
and techniques without detailed guidance from course instructors.
Final products were analyzed via proton NMR spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy,
and melting point analysis to determine if students were successful
in forming their assigned material. Extremely positive feedback about
the experiment was collected and is presented.
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