Heiko Hoffmann^1,, Michael W. Tausch²

Photochemistry is an important topic which is relevant regarding the usage of solar light as clean energy source. By employing photoreactions, a broad variety of molecular transformations can be conducted which is different from classical thermal chemistry. Ketones provide advantages and thus can be used as model compounds to develop central aspects and principles of photochemistry for teaching purposes. A photochemical experiment for university teaching, dealing with the basic reaction modes of ketones with γ-C-H-bonds, can be introduced and adjusted to the learners capability and pre-knowledge. Different basic characteristics of photochemistry and radical reactions as well as advanced topics and working techniques can be accessed in a hands-on-way using the model reaction. Depending on the equipment and the time frame available, the experiment can be conducted on preparative or on micro scale.

ketones, photochemistry, H-atom transfer, radical reactions, hands-on laboratory learning