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Introduction

Preface

Let us begin by saying that the first semester laboratory course will not correlate with the lecture material in all instances. However, your lecture text will serve as a useful background and reference source (i.e., the chapter on infrared spectroscopy, functional groups, and molecular structure). There will be experiments that explore concepts developed in lecture, but they might appear earlier (or sometimes later) in the lecture than performed in the laboratory. With several instructors, each traveling at their own pace, it is a difficult task to have the laboratory experiments fall at exactly the time the material is covered in the lecture. Also, the first semester laboratory course is one in which the student is exposed to the more common techniques that are used by organic chemists; therefore, one will find that most experiments are designed to introduce a technique rather than focus on a specific reaction. The second semester of the sequence is more reaction oriented. Hopefully, the experience will be an enjoyable one for all.

Check-In

Your experience in Organic lab will start by learning the equipment that you will use throughout the course. It is essential that you learn the names of all the equipment in your drawer. You will be quizzed on this equipment throughout the semester. Also, make sure to follow all safety protocols and familiarize yourself with all of the emergency and safety equipment in the lab.