Shainaz Landge

A simple and effective 1,2,3-triazole based “turn-on” fluorescence sensor for the detection of anions

A novel and effective 1,2,3-triazole based fluorescence chemosensor has been synthesized for the specific detection of anions in homogeneous medium. Notably, the molecule, synthesized in one step using “Click chemistry”, is a simple 1,4-diaryl-1,2,3-triazole, containing a phenol moiety. The probe displayed the strongest response to fluoride ion through the “turn-on” fluorescence sensing mechanism when screened for selectivity and sensitivity against a series of anions (F−, Cl−, Br−, I−, H2PO4−, ClO4−, OAc−, BF4−). Fluorescence spectroscopy and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR) studies substantiate 1 : 1 stoichiometry between the probe and fluoride anion. Kinetic studies and the single crystal X-ray spectroscopic evidence revealed the binding interaction occurs with the phenolic group and the anion.

A Culture of Extrinsically Motivated Students: Chemistry

Recent research indicates that students are adopting a consumerist approach to education, while data shows that the best academic outcomes are associated with intrinsic motivation. The goal of the study was to explore student academic motivation in an undergraduate Principles of Chemistry I class. The study targeted 432 students enrolled in 9 sections of the class over two semesters at a mid-sized, public four year university. Student academic motivation was measured using the adapted Academic Motivation Scale (AMS). A total of 311 students returned the survey (response rate = 72 %). The results indicated that students enrolled in Chemistry I classes were extrinsically motivated more than intrinsically motivated. The types of extrinsic motivation identified by students were the least autonomous ones, such as external and introjected regulation.

Solvent-Free Synthesis of Nanoparticles

Abstract This chapter focuses on the synthesis of nanoparticles applying mechanochemical and thermal methods through solvent-free approach. For mechanochemistry, substantial attention is given to ball milling and mortar-and-pestle grinding. The discussion on thermolysis/thermal decomposition covers (1) thermal treatment of precursor salts, (2) thermal treatment of precursor salts with capping agents, and (3) the use of microwave energy. In many cases, researchers have determined that solvent-free methods offer a more reliable and predictable means by which the physicochemical properties of their materials can be controlled with the choice of reaction conditions. The merits of these methods over using solvent entails stable, monodispersed fine nanoparticles that have found applications in various chemical, biological, and environmental fields.