A Simple Demonstration of Deoxygenation of Carbonyl Groups for Undergraduates in an Organic Chemistry Laboratory Class through Project-Based Learning

Abstract

The Clemmensen reduction is a common example of a reaction demonstrating the deoxygenation of carbonyl groups, which is a topic that has been widely studied in the field of organic chemistry. The use of trimethylchlorosilane, as a substitute for concentrated hydrochloric acid, allows for the reduction of carbonyl groups. The Clemmensen reduction experiment is performed by undergraduates for project-based learning. As a part of this program, students evaluate the influence of active functional groups, electron-donating and electron-withdrawing groups, steric hindrance, and other factors on the modified Clemmensen reduction using different reaction substrates. This lab activity aims to show the effectiveness of teaching organic chemistry laboratory methodologies to undergraduate students and serves as a tool for the final evaluation of practical knowledge using experiments. Project-based learning not only effectively improves the experimental ability of organic chemistry students but also has great importance in the development of interpersonal skills, including teamwork and innovative thinking. This helps to achieve the integration of applied-project-based learning and organic chemistry experimental teaching objectives.