Abstract: The synthesis of benzophenone represents a fundamental organic chemistry experiment in current undergraduate laboratory curricula. However, conventional methods suffer from several drawbacks, including the requirement for excessive oxidizing agents, the use of highly toxic benzene as starting material, and complex operational procedures. Aligned with green chemistry principles, this modified experiment incorporates photocatalytic synthesis technology for benzophenone production, employing vitamin B₂ (riboflavin) as a photocatalyst and molecular oxygen from air as the oxidant under visible light irradiation. The improved protocol eliminates the need for metal catalysts while offering advantages of mild reaction conditions, operational simplicity, and cost-effectiveness. By integrating cutting-edge photochemical synthesis concepts into undergraduate laboratory education, this approach provides a safe, efficient, and environmentally benign experimental model. The experiment not only deepens students’ understanding of photocatalytic reactions and green chemistry principles, but also fosters innovative thinking and cultivates scientific reasoning skills.

Key words: Photocatalytic oxidation, Vitamin B₂, Benzophenone, Green chemistry