Organic Chemistry Laboratory IB 1200-1CHOR2BL4
During laboratory classes, students work individually while following the health and safety regulations applicable in an organic chemistry laboratory.
At the beginning of the course, introductory exercises are conducted, involving the purification of three organic substances through crystallization, simple distillation, and extraction. These exercises are preceded by demonstrations performed by academic instructors. After completing the introductory exercises, students are required to pass a test assessing their knowledge of the basic techniques used for the purification of organic compounds, laboratory equipment, types of drying agents, the ability to use chemical reference materials, simple calculations necessary to properly carry out experiments (e.g., converting concentrations, preparing solutions of specific concentrations, calculating reaction yields, etc.), and laboratory safety rules.
Next, the preparative part of the course takes place, which involves the synthesis of six compounds of increasing complexity and time demand. Before starting the synthesis of each compound, students must pass an oral quiz with the instructor on the reaction mechanism, methods of obtaining the relevant class of compounds and their reactivity, and the safety precautions required.
At the end of the semester (students must complete at least four syntheses), a final written test is held, covering theoretical and practical knowledge related to organic synthesis.
Estimated student workload per semester – 225 hours, including:
Participation in classes – 120 hours
Consultations (oral quizzes on syntheses) – 15 hours
Preparation for entry tests on syntheses – 30 hours
Preparation for technique quizzes and the final test – 30 hours
Preparation of laboratory reports – 30 hours
Type of course
Prerequisites (description)
Course coordinators
Term 2024L: | Term 2025L: |
Learning outcomes
KNOWLEDGE (K_W08, K_W15):
Upon completion of the course, the student:
- Possesses advanced knowledge of organic chemistry and biochemistry (nomenclature, structure of organic compounds, chemical reactions, reaction mechanisms, methods of synthesis, occurrence, and applications). Understands the significance of chemical phenomena in biological processes.
- Has advanced knowledge of occupational health and safety principles sufficient for work in a chemical laboratory.
SKILLS (K_U08, K_U15, K_U17, K_U21, K_U28):
Upon completion of the course, the student:
- Can analyze problems in the field of organic chemistry, including exploring mechanisms of organic reactions. Can carry out the synthesis of selected organic compounds. Can separate mixtures of selected organic compounds and purify the obtained components.
- Can skillfully plan and perform basic chemical research and experiments, as well as observe and critically assess their own results and discuss measurement errors.
- Can perform measurements of selected physicochemical quantities, determine their values, and assess the reliability of the results obtained. Can operate selected measuring instruments.
- Can independently acquire knowledge and develop professional skills using various sources (written and electronic), including those in a foreign language.
- Can plan and organize both individual and team work within joint tasks and projects and critically evaluate the progress of such work.
SOCIAL COMPETENCES (K_K01):
Upon completion of the course, the student:
- Is ready to define the scope of their own knowledge and skills and to enhance their professional and personal competences.
Assessment criteria
Attendance at classes is mandatory. Two excused absences are allowed (however, all syntheses must be completed). Unexcused lateness exceeding 15 minutes is not permitted.
Course completion requirements:
1) Passing reports from introductory exercises (distillation, crystallization, extraction).
2) Passing an entry test before each synthesis, followed by the individual performance and graded completion of the synthesis along with a written report.
3) Passing the initial and final written tests, with a minimum of 60% of the total points required to pass.
Resit conditions:
Students who did not complete all practical exercises on time may complete one synthesis during the resit period. Failure to complete more than one synthesis prevents passing the course in the given semester.
Students who did not pass the final written test may retake it during the resit period.
For organisational matters, please contact Dr Katarzyna Sęktas.
Practical placement
Does not concern
Bibliography
Podstawy preparatyki organicznej, Skrypt dla studentów II roku Wydziału Chemii UW, Misicka A., Orłowska A., Piekarska-Bartoszewicz B., Witkowska E., LIBER, 2012 (wydanie II)
Preparatyka organiczna, Vogel A., WNT, 2006
Vogel's Textbook of Practical Organic Chemistry (5th Edition)
A.I. Vogel, A.R. Tatchell, B.S. Furnis, A.J. Hannaford, P.W.G. Smith
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: