In the Organic Chemistry Laboratory at the Fort Myers campus,  students are learning how to separate organic compounds from inorganic compounds by using various solvents and a separatory funnel. In this experiment, the students mixed chlorophyll (an organic compound) solution in hexane and copper sulfate (an inorganic compound) solution in water. The students then used a separatory funnel to separate these compounds as shown in the picture, the beautiful green color (top organic layer) and blue color (bottom aqueous layer). Chlorophyll is the green pigment responsible for photosynthesis by green plants.

In addition, each student had an opportunity to work with a Micropipette.  Micropipettes are used for accurate measurements of very small volume such as microliters.

Organic Chemistry Feb. 2015 (4) Organic Chemistry Feb. 2015 (2) Organic Chemistry Feb. 2015 (3)