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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 1999  > October  >
In the Classroom
Applications and Analogies
An Acid-Base Chemistry Example: Conversion of Nicotine
John H. Summerfield
Department of Chemistry, Missouri Southern State College, Joplin, MO 64801

Cover
October 1999
Vol. 76 No. 10
p. 1397

Abstract
The current government interest in nicotine conversion by cigarette companies provides an example of acid-base chemistry that can be explained to students in the second semester of general chemistry. In particular, the conversion by ammonia of the +1 form of nicotine to the easier-to-assimilate free-base form illustrates the effect of pH on acid-base equilibrium. The part played by ammonia in tobacco smoke is analogous to what takes place when cocaine is "free-based".
More Information
*  Citation
Summerfield, John H. J. Chem. Educ. 1999 76 1397.
*  Keywords
Public Understanding; AcidÐBase Chemistry; Drugs / Pharmaceuticals; Equilibrium; Teaching / Learning Aids; Introductory / High School Chemistry
*  History
Created:
Last Updated:
September 6, 1999
June 23, 2005
  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 1999 > October > Page 1397


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