With so many possible sites to bond with, how can chemists ensure that they can produce only the product they seek? The 12th and final video in the green chemistry series has pupils observe how to use derivatives to isolate functional groups within a molecule, influencing the outcome of the reaction. The narrator also describes the drawbacks of using blocking groups compared to the waste associated with conducting the reaction without them.

Concepts

organic chemistry, organic compounds, functional groups

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• To help the class understand this concept, demonstrate the variety of reactions that can occur when introducing a smaller molecule to a large organic molecule
• Extend the lesson by having class members research how blocking groups are attached to molecules in order to isolate a functional group

Classroom Considerations

• Learners should have some prior knowledge of organic chemistry concepts

Pros

• The animations provide visual cues to aid in understanding a difficult concept
• Video brings the series full-circle by relating the use of blocking groups to waste reduction and reduced energy consumption

Cons

• None