NMR spectroscopy is widely regarded as one of the most important tools in modern chemistry. However, while many laboratory experiments teach students the details of 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy at the sophomore organic chemistry level, few tools exist for introducing students to this crucial technique at the introductory general chemistry level. We present here a new laboratory experiment in which first-semester general chemistry students collect and interpret the 31P NMR spectra of a series of different PR3 compounds (where R = aryl and alkyl substituents). By interpreting and comparing 31P NMR spectra, students gain insight into important NMR concepts including chemical shift, peak integration, and the use of internal standards, while avoiding much of the potential confusion involved in the similar study of 1H NMR spectra. This early introduction to modern NMR spectroscopy prepares students for the use of the technique in more advanced ways in subsequent courses.

Utilizing <sup>31</sup>P NMR spectroscopy in undergraduate general chemistry courses as an early introduction to modern chemical characterization

245th National Meeting (2013)

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Utilizing 31P NMR spectroscopy in undergraduate general chemistry courses as an early introduction to modern chemical characterization

Utilizing ³¹P NMR spectroscopy in undergraduate general chemistry courses as an early introduction to modern chemical characterization