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2002
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In the Laboratory
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A Structure–Activity Investigation of Photosynthetic Electron Transport. An Interdisciplinary Experiment for the First-Year Laboratory
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Kerry K. Karukstis, Gerald R. Van Hecke, Katherine A. Roth, and Matthew A. Burden
Department of Chemistry, Harvey Mudd College, Claremont, CA 91711
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August 2002
Vol. 79 No. 8
p. 985
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| Abstract |
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This experiment features an investigative approach designed for the introductory science or engineering major and integrates concepts in the fields of chemistry, biology, and physics. Derived from faculty research interests, it gives students an opportunity to formulate and test hypotheses and illustrates the connection between molecular structure and macroscopic properties. Students use absorption spectroscopy to monitor the rate of the initial steps of photosynthesis. These light-activated steps involve the rapid transfer of electrons between specialized molecules in the plant cell organelles (chloroplasts) responsible for photosynthesis. Students then test the effectiveness of various substituted quinones as model herbicide inhibitors of photosynthetic electron transport. On the basis of their rankings of electron transport inhibition for the initial set of quinones, students then test and refine their hypothesis of the ideal quinone structure that will lead to the most effective inhibition of electron transport. With the use of a molecular modeling program, the tested quinones are examined to visualize the structural aspects that promote and hinder electron transport inhibition and to propose a model of the herbicide binding region in chloroplasts.
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| Supplement |
Complete student experimental procedures, instructions for using the software Molecular Modeling Pro, prelab assignments with solutions, instructions for isolating the chloroplasts and preparing indicator and inhibitor solutions, a sample grade sheet, and sample data for illustrating reaction rate determination are available.
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Citation |
Karukstis, Kerry K.; Van Hecke, Gerald R.; Roth, Katherine A.; Burden, Matthew A. J. Chem. Educ. 2002 79 985.
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Keywords |
Biophysical Chemistry; Curriculum; Electron Transport; General Chemistry; Inquiry-Based / Discovery Method; Intermolecular Forces; Laboratory Instruction; Molecular Properties / Structure; UV-Vis Spectroscopy
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History |
Created:
Last Updated: |
July 23, 2002
March 16, 2005
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| Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues >
2002
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August
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985
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