20th Annual Student Research Conference
Science
A Replication of Victor Meyer's Synthesis of Benzildioximes (1888-1889)
Nathaniel T. Webber
Dr. Peter Ramberg, Faculty Mentor
Replications of historic experiments can often reveal previously hidden aspects of past scientific practice. In this project, we have replicated Victor Meyer's procedures from 1888 and 1889 on the synthesis of three isomeric benzildioximes. These isomers were chemically identical, but possessed different melting points, and were among the first compounds to demonstrate that stereochemical factors were responsible for physical differences in chemically identical compounds. In order to understand Meyer's original syntheses, his original procedures were translated and replicated. We have currently succeeded in producing two of the three benzildioximes following Meyer's published procedures, and our replication has revealed details of his technique that were not included in his original publications.
Keywords: Victor Meyer, stereochemistry, benzildioxime, replication
Topic(s):Chemistry
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 8-6
Location: OP Lobby
Time: 4:15 pm