Gaining a full understanding of 1H NMR spectroscopy, by embracing a hands-on approach to learning, has proven to be a valuable teaching method at Augsburg College. With the use of a miniature NMR spectrometer, the organic chemistry laboratory curriculum was redeveloped to utilize this NMR as a teaching instrument. Compared to other modern NMR instruments, the instrument is inexpensive, smaller, easier to use, and gives students at Augsburg direct experience with obtaining and analyzing their own NMR spectra. A number of existing laboratory exercises, as well as potential new experiments, were carried out and investigated for adaptation with this instrument. NMR spectra of many different samples were then obtained in order to determine the most efficient sampling technique and to assess how students can best benefit from this extremely valuable analytical tool.

Miniature NMR spectrometer for use in undergraduate organic chemistry laboratories

247th National Meeting (2014)

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