ABSTRACT
Reaction optimization is an important part of solution-phase organic synthesis. Many conditions can affect the success of a reaction, including the solvent, pH, temperature, and concentration of reagents. In general, the goal of a reaction optimization is to modify these conditions to maximize the yield and purity of the desired product. Analytical chemistry is required to assess the yield and purity of any reaction. Chemists use many analytical techniques to follow solution-phase reactions; these include ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), gas chromatography (GC), high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectrometry (MS), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and nuclear magnetic reso nance spectroscopy (NMR). The chemist typically uses these techniques in the optimization process to monitor the extent of completion of a reaction, to confirm the identity of a reaction product, and to determine the purity of the product.
