University Chemistry ›› 2024, Vol. 39 ›› Issue (7): 299-306.doi: 10.3866/PKU.DXHX202310105

• Chemistry Laboratory • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Comprehensive Chemical Experiment Design: Convenient Preparation and Characterization of an Oxygen-Bridged Trinuclear Iron(III) Complex

Jinfeng Chu1, Yicheng Wang1, Ji Qi1, Yulin Liu1, Yan Li1, Lan Jin1, Lei He1, Yufei Song1,2   

  1. 1 College of Chemistry, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China;
    2 State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
  • Received:2023-10-25 Accepted:2023-11-15 Published:2023-11-27
  • Contact: Yufei Song E-mail:songyf@mail.buct.edu.cn

Abstract: At present, the undergraduate chemistry experimental teaching predominantly focuses on mononuclear complexes in the field of complex preparation experiments, often overlooking the significantly important polynuclear complexes within the complex family. Addressing this gap, we have designed a comprehensive chemical experiment involving a trinuclear iron(III) complex, drawing from scientific research findings to enrich students’ comprehension and application of complex chemistry. This design involved the preparation of an oxygen-bridged trinuclear iron(III) complex, [Fe3O(CH3COO)6(H2O)3]NO3·4H2O, utilizing cost-effective and readily available iron(III) nitrate nonahydrate and sodium acetate trihydrate as raw materials through water bath heating, cooling crystallization, and other steps. The iron content in the complex was determined by complexometric titration, and characterized by infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, powder X-ray diffraction, and electron paramagnetic resonance. The experimental is notable for its simplicity, efficiency, and eco-friendly approach. It incorporates ideological and political elements, and showcases the complex’s novel and symmetrically aesthetic structure. During experimental teaching, students can also cultivate their appreciation of the intrinsic beauty of chemistry. The integration of science and education in this design helps to foster students’ ability to analyze and solve problems, providing a feasible case for comprehensive chemistry experimental teaching for undergraduate students.

Key words: Comprehensive chemical experiment, Oxygen-bridged trinuclear iron(III) complex, Symmetrical structure, Electron paramagnetic resonance