Consistent with the increasing instrumental emphasis in chemistry, Mississippi College is introducing a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) into its chemistry curriculum. Use and application of this instrument affects all students in organic and analytical chemistry, and instrumental analysis, and strengthen our undergraduate research program. The GC-MS uses a benchtop system, computer accessed and controlled, and allows identification of complex mixtures, data storage, and comparisons searching within a large library of data. Student experience with GC-MS compliments present powerful analytical methods thus better preparing them for graduate and professional schools or industry. Specific course improvements include increasing the instrumental emphasis in qualitative organic analysis of natural materials, products of chemical reactions, environmental contaminants and drugs. Theory of mass spectrometry is supported by experiments and in advanced classes the importance of integrating separation science and mass spectroscopy with computer assistance is experienced. The institution is matching the NSF grant with an equal amount of funds.
