Determination of an Unknown Aryl Amine Reactant Using Microwave-Assisted Acetanilide Synthesis and Thin-Layer Chromatography : A Multioutcome, Guided-Inquiry-Based Organic Chemistry Laboratory Experiment (Journal Article)

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Abstract: In an effort to further develop critical thinking and problem solving skills, a guided-inquiry-based, multioutcome organic chemistry synthesis and characterization experiment was developed. Students were provided with the protocol for a time-saving microwave-assisted acetanilide synthesis reaction from acetic anhydride and an unknown primary aryl amine. They developed their own protocol for thin-layer chromatography to determine their unknown reactant and assess the completion of the acetanilide reaction. The microwave-catalyzed reaction allowed time for characterization of the acetanilide product, including thin-layer chromatography, melting point, and 1H NMR spectroscopy during a single laboratory period. Determination of the unknown reactant was accomplished using these data. This experiment was successful in both science majors and health science majors organic chemistry courses.