A gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer/data system (GC/MS) has been acquired for use in the undergraduate chemistry laboratories at Whitman College. In the introductory organic chemistry laboratory, it is being used to separate and identify organic compounds in complex mixtures such as gasoline. In the advanced organic chemistry laboratory, several ultra-microscale experiments using GC/MS detection and analysis of the products have been introduced. In Instrumental Analysis, the instrument is used to demonstrate the principles and limitations of GC/MS, and detect and identify trace organic pollutants in water samples. In the Biochemistry laboratory, students detect and identify therapeutic drugs and drugs of abuse in body fluids and determine the damage that carcinogens and chemotherapeutic dugs inflict on DNA. In the newly established Forensic Laboratory, GC/MS is being used to detect and identify illegal drugs, gunshot residue, arson evidence, and explosives. The project staff plan to publish the results of the above experiments. The institution has contributed to the project in an amount equal to the NSF funds.
