Lebanon Valley College has acquired a FT-NMR and the accompanying computer-based data station. The chemistry department uses the instrument to introduce FT-NMR spectroscopy into the laboratory at a number of levels. Specific course improvements include: introduction of topics and uses of FT-NMR spectrometry into the organic chemistry laboratories; demonstration of the principles of operation of a FT-NMR spectrometer and its analytical applications in the instrumental analysis laboratory; use of FT-NMR in physical chemistry laboratory to reveal relaxation times and rates of chemical reactions; and the use of NMR spectroscopy in independent study and in summer research programs. The equipment is integrated into our annual summer chemistry program attended by 30-40 advanced high school students. The institution is matching the NSF grant with an equal amount of funds.
