Application of Chemical Transformation Driven Impurity Separation in Experiments Teaching:A Novel Method for Purification of α-Fluorinated Mandelic Acid
In line with the comprehensive experimental teaching philosophy of "problem-oriented,interest-driven,and self-directed exploration",the theory of "chemical transformation-driven impurity separation" has been integrated into organic chemistry laboratory teaching to design innovative comprehensive experiments. Through the utilization of chemical transformations,effective separation of the target molecule to be purified (α-fluorobenzoic acid,abbreviated as "fluorinated mandelic acid") from impurities (mandelic acid) has been achieved,with product purities reaching 98.7% and 97.0%,respectively. The main chemicals and reagents used throughout the experiment are economically affordable,readily available,and recyclable,fully reflecting the principles of atom economy and green chemistry. Various essential organic chemistry experimental techniques,including vacuum distillation,concentration,recrystallization,and filtration,as well as important analytical methods such as thin-layer chromatography and nuclear magnetic resonance,were employed during the experimental process. Proficiency in these crucial experimental techniques and analytical methods enables the cultivation of students' abilities to conduct experiments guided by fundamental theories,effectively separate organic compounds with small differences in properties,and analyze experimental phenomena. Furthermore,this enhances undergraduate students' academic cultivation,scientific literacy,and ability to apply knowledge to solve practical problems.