University Chemistry ›› 2026, Vol. 41 ›› Issue (7): 364-372.doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202504079

• Between Teacher and Student • Previous Articles    

The role of named reactions in organic chemistry teaching: case studies of the Roskamp-Feng and Ullmann-Ma reactions

Xuguang Liu, Caiwen Li, Honglei Ling, Mao Liang   

  1. School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China
  • Received:2025-04-28 Accepted:2025-07-29 Published:2026-06-27
  • Contact: Xuguang Liu, Mao Liang E-mail:xuguangliu@tjut.edu.cn;liangmao717@126.com

Abstract: Named reactions hold pivotal importance in organic chemistry education, with each reaction embodying the significant contributions of distinguished organic chemists and their research teams. Tracing the historical development of these named reactions and exploring the stories behind the scientists constitutes an essential component of ideological and political education in the curriculum. Among the multitude of chemical named reactions, those bearing Chinese scientists’ names remain exceptionally rare. This article examines the pedagogical value of named reactions in organic chemistry instruction, focusing on two representative examples: the Roskamp-Feng reaction and the Ullmann-Ma reaction. The discussion provides valuable insights for educators seeking to enhance the teaching of organic chemistry courses.

Key words: Organic chemistry, Named reaction, Roskamp-Feng reaction, Ullmann-Ma reaction, Teaching