1. Qualitative Analysis pre-lab lecture
Chemistry 2412L
Qualitative Analysis pre-lab lecture

2. Qualitative Organic Analysis
An important part of organic chemistry has to do with the characterization and identification of unknown compounds
A systematic approach will include the following:
Determination of physical properties
Determination of solubility class
Functional group classification tests
Elemental analysis
Spectroscopy (IR, NMR, GCMS)
Synthesis and characterization of a derivative to confirm structure (we are not doing this part)

3. Qualitative Organic Analysis
In this experiment you will choose an unknown compound and perform the tests indicated in the procedure.
Some additional data (elemental analysis and NMR) will also be provided for each unknown.
The goal of the experiment is to use all of your data and observations to determine the complete structure of the unknown compound.

4. Procedure Notes
The tests you will conduct on your unknown are listed below. You are already familiar with many of these tests. Pictures of results from some of these tests can be found at this link.
Physical properties
Observe physical characteristics
Determine the melting point or boiling point of your unknown
Solubility
Test solubility in water, base and acid
Beilstein test
Tests for the presence of chlorine, bromine, or iodine
Chromic acid test
Oxidizes primary alcohols, secondary alcohols, and aldehydes
Ferric chloride test
Tests for phenolic -OH

5. Procedure Notes Iodoform test Tests for methyl ketones
2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine test
Tests for aldehydes and ketones
Hinsberg test
Tests for primary and secondary amines
Silver nitrate test
Tests for alkyl halides and carboxylic acids
Lucas test
Tests for alcohols
Bromination test
Tests for alkenes/alkynes

6. Procedure Notes Potassium permanganate test Tests for alkenes/alkynes
Ignition test
Tests for aromatic rings IR
Take an IR spectrum of your unknown
GCMS
Determine the GCMS of your unknown
Elemental Analysis
Provided on the instructor’s webpage
1H-NMR and 13C-NMR

7. Safety Notes
In many of these procedures, highly reactive reagents or strong acids and bases are used. Most solvents are flammable. Keep in mind the safety notes you have seen throughout the semester and use standard precautions.
Always wear safety goggles.
Wash thoroughly with water if any chemicals come in contact with the skin.