Atoms, Molecules and Reactions II: Advanced Organic Chemistry and Instrumental Methods of Analysis

This program has been designed to solidify and build upon basic concepts of organic chemistry and instrumental methods of analysis. It will provide students with a variety of options for learning in three different components: Advanced Organic Chemistry, Instrumental Methods of Chemical Analysis and Trace Metals Analysis (ICP-MS). Students are encouraged to enroll in the entire 16-credit offering but may also choose from one or more of the three components. All program activities, including lecture, workshops and laboratory work, will place heavy emphasis on the use of primary chemical literature and problem solving.

In Advanced Organic Chemistry we will pursue the molecular factors that govern reaction mechanisms and outcomes. We will examine modern synthesis strategies such as retrosynthetic analysis by ‘ionic formalism' and functional group ‘keyed' transforms. Studies will also include organometallic chemistry and asymmetric synthesis methods. Fundamental theories of modern analytical instrumentation will be examined as they pertain to organic and inorganic analysis. Molecular structure problems will be solved using rational data interpretation strategies. The associated lab component will stress application of the theories and techniques of synthesis in the preparation and purification of organic compounds. This work may involve complex manipulations including the handling of air- and moisture-sensitive reagents. Laboratory will also emphasize application of the theories and techniques of instrumental analysis in the characterization of compounds synthesized. The prerequisite for this 8-credit component is one year of sophomore level organic chemistry with laboratory.

In Instrumental Methods of Chemical Analysis we will examine the physical basis for spectroscopic, mass spectrometry, and electrochemical methods for determining chemical concentrations and molecular structures. Laboratory studies will build upon background from fall quarter quantum mechanics. The prerequisite for this 4-credit component is the completion of fall quarter Atoms, Molecules and Reactions I.

Trace Metals Analysis will be dedicated to the theory and practice of using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) to properly analyze samples for metal composition. The class will use applications to environmental studies involving aqueous and biological samples. Heavy emphasis will be placed on using standard EPA methods for quality assurance and quality control. The prerequisite for this 4-credit component is one year of general chemistry.

This will be a rigorous program, designed for students who want to learn advanced chemistry. We expect students to end the quarter with hands-on experience applying the theories and techniques of advanced organic chemistry and instrumental methods of chemical analysis.