This paper presents a simplified approach for the application of material efficiency metrics to linear and convergent synthesis plans encountered in organic synthesis courses. Computations are facilitated and automated using intuitively designed Microsoft Excel spreadsheets without invoking abstract mathematical formulas. The merits of this…

Describes a problem-solving activity integrating a laboratory investigation with a database activity using Appleworks. Presents typical displays of the databases. The objective of the laboratory was to determine the identity of a pure substance by measuring physical properties and searching the database. (Author/YP)