Two thematically linked discovery-based first semester organic chemistry laboratory experiments have been developed that introduce extraction, crystallization, and melting point using a counterfeit drug scenario. In the first week students use filtration and acid-base extractions to separate their possible counterfeit drug into three separate compounds. At this stage a simple chemical test establishes the identity of one of the compounds. In the second week of the experiment students crystallize the remaining compounds and use melting point to determine their identities from a list of possible candidates. Each student then determines whether they have analyzed a counterfeit or genuine drug. By integrating this scenario at the beginning of our laboratory sequence we have found that our students have a better understanding of extraction, crystallization, and melting point, and are better able to apply these techniques to later experiments.

Counterfeit drugs: Teaching three organic chemistry laboratory techniques using a two week scenario

245th National Meeting (2013)

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