May 11
Chemistry Department Seminar: Robert McMahon
'Organic Chemistry in Harsh Reaction Environments'
Robert J. McMahon
Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin
Our research efforts focus on elucidating the chemistry and spectroscopy of organic species that are postulated to play a role in harsh environments (e.g. combustion, planetary atmospheres, interstellar space). These environments contain a remarkable diversity of organic functionality, including reactive intermediates such as anions, radicals, and carbenes. We have drawn on our knowledge of mechanistic and structural organic chemistry to identify chemically-significant targets for detection and characterization. Many of these investigations are made possible through our ability to prepare specific chemical precursor molecules via synthetic organic chemistry. I will present case studies that exemplify how modern physical-organic chemistry spans the disciplines of organic chemistry, chemical physics, and astronomy.