Microwave-Assisted Heterocyclic Chemistry for Undergraduate Organic Laboratory

Author Contact: polanski@us.edu.pl

Summary

Heterocyclic compounds have a wide range of applications and properties. They are often antimicrobial agents, can inhibit specific enzymes, and are generally useful in organic synthesis. This experiment provides instructors with a variety of heterocyclic compounds that can be synthesized quickly with the aid of microwaves. While not a lot of Microwave-Assisted Organic Synthesis (MAOS) is taught at the undergraduate level, it has the advantages of generally increasing yields, decreased reaction times, and, in most cases, eliminating the need for a solvent.

The heterocyclic chemistry includes the synthesis of compounds such as phthalamide, succinic anhydride and benzoxazinone. This experiment would fit well into a course when discussing green chemistry, heterocyclic chemistry, esters, amides, anhydrides, amines, carboxylic acids, melting points and recrystallization.

The supplemental information includes a list of necessary chemicals and equipment, a student handout, procedures, and melting point data for all products.

Summary prepared October 2008 by Douglas M. Young at the University of Oregon.

Category Descriptors

Chemistry Concepts

• Addition Rxn
• Carbonyl Chemistry
• Esters
• Heterocycles
• Nucleophilic Substitution
• Photochemistry

Laboratory Techniques

• Melting Points and Melting Ranges
• Recrystallization
• Vacuum Filtration

Green Chemistry Principles

• Increase Energy Efficiency
• Maximize Atom Economy
• Minimize the Potential for Accidents
• Prevent Waste
• Use Safer Solvents/Reaction Conditions

Chemistry Subdiscipline

• Organic Chemistry

Target Audience

• Colleges/Universities

Source

• Journal Articles