A discovery-based thin-layer chromatography (TLC) experiment has been developed for introductory organic chemistry laboratories utilizing agent-based modeling. During the first week of lab, students make use of an agent-based computer modeling program, Starlogo TNG, to determine the impact of altering the polarity of solute and solvent on TLC results. Students also utilize the program to model the separation of a mixed sample of solutes with varying polarity. During the second week, students work in the lab determining an unknown sample of two solutes via TLC analysis. Since incorporating this experiment in the organic chemistry curriculum, our assessment of the students shows excellent retention of the principles of TLC.

Agent-based modeling as a tool for a discovery-based TLC experiment

249th National Meeting (2015)

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