Part I. Synthesis, characterization, and reactivity of novel rhenium (V) phosphine complexes. Part II. Efficacy of computer-assisted labs
Abstract
Part I describes the synthesis of the fac-cis and mer-trans isomers of ReOCl3(PEt3) 2 in high yield with the fac-cis isomer being structurally characterized by X-ray crystallography for the first time. The heptahydrides ReH7(PR3)2 and pentahydrides ReH5(PR 3)3 have been synthesized where R = Me, Et. The previously unreported compounds ReO(OR)Cl2(PMe3)2 and ReO(OR)Cl2(PEt3)2, where R = Me, Et, have been synthesized through phosphine displacement on the complex ReO(OR)Cl 2(PPh3)2, with the methyl derivative being characterized by X-ray crystallography. Part II describes two new electrochemistry experiments which utilize computers to collect and organize data. The first involves solution conductivity and incorporates a titration of an acid mixture with a strong base. The second involves a titration using a student-built ion sensitive electrode. Student conceptual knowledge was assessed both before and after the experiments were implemented by semi-structured interviews. A quasi-control group was also interviewed. Electrochemical misconceptions are identified, analyzed and discussed. Teaching strategies and recommendations are given.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Robinson, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Inorganic chemistry|Science education|Educational technology
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