Chemistry Laboratory Techniques

Before we get started in the lab on January 5th, there are several chapters in the text that you
must read first. Our time in the lab will be intense, but of limited duration, so it is important that
you complete the readings on time. Not only is the reading essential to your success in 5.301, but it
also will help in your development as an experimental chemist.
So, before you begin your experiments, take some time to read over the following chapters
in Zubrick. This text was selected because it's easy to read and very practical. For more in-depth
reading on these and related topics, we recommend the listed selections in the text by Leonard,
Lygo, and Procter. A copy of this text will be available in the Reserve Book Room of the Science
library. It is often difficult to fully grasp a laboratory concept by simply reading about it, but using
the strategy of introductory reading, practicing in the lab, and post-lab review reading you will retain
most of what we will cover in 5.301.
At the beginning of each lab period, there will be a short overview of that day's topic where
Dr. Tabacco and your TAs will facilitate a discussion of the assigned reading and the actual lab
experiment. You will also view relevant portions of The Digital Lab Techniques Manual to give
you a visual representation of the important techniques. Time will be set aside to answer questions
that you have from the readings.
The following list is the bulk of the reading for the course. There will also be additional
reading during IAP, but this introductory reading is meant to familiarize you with the typical chemistry laboratory

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