Functional Groups and Basic Chemical Tests Virtual Lab

This simulation was adapted from the original, longer “Organic Chemistry Introduction” simulation. See the full-length simulation for more information.

Functional … what? In this simulation, you will learn the very basics of functional groups within organic chemistry, and perform simple chemical tests to validate their presence.

Tooth trouble

You will start off by meeting with Simon, who’s having trouble with a terrible toothache. He’s gotten some painkillers, but from a source he’s not entirely sure he can trust. Perhaps you can help him figure out if it’s alright for him to take the painkillers?

Prepping for the real deal

In the lab, you join forces with Dr. One, who will support and test you on your mission. After suiting up for the lab, you dive straight into the first experiment: the bromine test. Here you need to show Dr. One that you’re comfortable when it comes to simple chemical tests—so the produced results in your main mission can be trusted!

Validation by chemical tests

You then move on to deal with the main mission: Salicylic acid. First, you need to figure out which functional groups are in this organic compound. Once that’s sorted, you move to the fume hoods again to test whether these groups are indeed present in your sample from Simon. Dr. One might have a little extra challenge waiting for you though.

An update for Simon

Armed with your findings, you will return to Simon to share what you’ve learnt about the contents of the painkillers he got. It will be tricky to get the chemical tests right, but luckily you can repeat the experience if you want to practice more. Will you be able to solve the functional group challenge?

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