Research Project
Computational Studiesivn Aryl Nitrene Insertion into ortho-,ortho',Sp3 C-H bonds
Faculty Mentor
Tim Chung
What is your research?
Solid-state photochemistry has profound implications in materials science and a sustainable, green-chemistry protocol for an environmentally friendly future of our planet. I am currently researching on using solid-state photochemistry to test C-H insertion from nitrenes to synthesize indolines and/or carbazole products. In light of the COVID-19 restrictions, I plan to use computational chemistry from my home to continue researching on this topic. For the U-SOAR in summer 2020, my research plan is to utilize computational chemistry to analyze the viability of C-H insertion of aryl nitrenes. Specifically, we will calculate the ground-state energies of the starting aryl azides and the indoline products to test the forward reaction for this C-H insertion. In addition to the ground state energies for the reactant and product, I plan to calculate the lowest energy and geometry of the nitrene after denitrogenation. Knowing this value would provide insight into the feasibility of the aryl nitrene insertion into C-H bonds. We will also calculate the distance between the nitrogen atom center and the closest hydrogen bond to see the projectory of the insertion step. Exchanging the hydrogen for a deuterium would also provide valuable insight on the kinetic requirements for this transformation.
Why is it important?
- Our research is important due to its focus on making chemistry more environmentally friendly because of our protocols
- This research will hopefully be able to provide more information on ways that we can try to keep our planet healthy for longer
- We also plan to hopefully use computations this summer to help give us more insight if our research is indeed possible
