Integrating course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) into upper-level chemistry courses is becoming increasingly popular. The benefits of such courses include increased student self-confidence, scientific research skills, and critical thinking. This paper describes a semester-long undergraduate research-integrated course experience for advanced analytical chemistry students with the goal of introducing them to mass spectrometry electron impact fragmentation mechanisms. This research project focuses on saturated fatty acids extracted from Joro Spider webs (Nephila clavate). Each student was responsible for collecting Joro spiders’ webs and subsequent fatty acid extraction in 2:1 (methylene chloride: methanol) solvent. Collated students’ GC-MS results showed positive identification of the following fatty acids; Palmitic acid (C16:0), Margaric acid (C 17:0), Stearic acid (C 18:0), Nonadecylic acid (C 19:0), Arachidic acid (C 20:0) and Lignoceric acid (C24:0). Alkyl esters of these fatty acids were also produced through a novel catalyst-free esterification method developed by the class. At the end of the semester, a detailed research paper is submitted for grading highlighting proposed fragmentation mechanisms for fragment ions in the mass spectra of these fatty acids. Isotopically labeled fatty acid standards are provided and subjected to the same GC-MS conditions to assist students in confirming their proposed mechanisms. Mid-semester one-on-one discussions with these students reaffirmed the benefits of a CURE course.

Electron impact ionization and fragmentation of saturated fatty acids from Joro spider web: Introduction to undergraduate mass spectrometry fragmentation mechanism

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