Off-campus University of Richmond users: To download campus access theses, please use the following link to log in to our proxy server with your university username and password.
Date of Award
2026
Document Type
Restricted Thesis: Campus only access
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Department
Chemistry
First Advisor
Dr. Kristine Nolin
Second Advisor
Dr. Will O’Neal
Abstract
Undergraduate organic chemistry textbooks frequently present qualitative claims about reactions without sufficient quantitative support. This study explores the extent to which such claims on alkene hydration reactions are supported by primary literature. Four textbooks were analyzed to identify qualitative and quantitative claims for acid-catalyzed hydration, hydroboration-oxidation, and oxymercuration-demercuration. Relevant literature was then reviewed using databases such as Google Scholar, SciFinder, and Reaxys to evaluate the availability of supporting data. Results show that while many qualitative statements are generally supported by experimental studies, corresponding quantitative data can be limited, inconsistent, or missing. In some cases, textbooks include numerical values that cannot be traced to primary sources. These findings highlight a gap between textbook content and primary research, emphasizing the need for better integration of quantitative data to enhance student understanding and improve the accuracy of organic chemistry education.
Recommended Citation
Dunkelberger, Elise, "Bridging Textbook Claims and Primary Literature on Alkene Hydration Reactions" (2026). Honors Theses. 1891.
https://scholarship.richmond.edu/honors-theses/1891