Soy Chemistry

This educational resource introduces a microfluidic-based molecular fluorescence spectroscopy experiment designed for freshmen enrolled in General Chemistry courses. The experiment focuses on the detection of transgenic soybeans by analyzing nucleic acids using a centrifugal microfluidic platform combined with loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). It serves as an interdisciplinary ...

This study, conducted by Nicola L. B. Pohl, Jennifer M. Streff, and Steve Brokman at Iowa State University, presents a comparative laboratory experiment designed for undergraduate organic chemistry students. The experiment explores the saponification and transesterification of plant oils (soybean, rapeseed, and olive) to produce soap and biodiesel, respectively.

Key Learning Objectives & ...

Tofu, a traditional Chinese food, is widely consumed around the world, yet the chemistry behind its production is often overlooked. This study presents a simple demonstration designed for lower-level undergraduate courses in organic chemistry or biochemistry to elucidate the key principles involved in the tofu-making process. The research highlights the role of heat treatment in denaturing soy ...

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) have found increasing application in the analysis of biological samples. Using these techniques to solve problems in analytical chemistry should be an essential component of the training of undergraduate chemists. We present an experiment that teaches students how to ...

The article "Incorporating Glycochemistry into the Undergraduate Laboratory Curriculum: Isolation and Analysis of Soybean Glycoprotein β-Conglycinin" addresses the underrepresentation of glycoscience in undergraduate biochemistry labs by introducing a multiweek experimental series. Students isolate β-conglycinin from soy flour and analyze it using SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry. They also apply a ...

This educational resource presents a hands-on outreach demonstration to explore the concepts of green polymer chemistry and sustainability. The lesson focuses on reprocessable polymer networks—a key innovation in sustainable material development—using common household ingredients such as vegetable oils, citric acid, and baking soda. Students learn about the environmental challenges posed by ...

This article explores the role of biodiesel as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based fuels, highlighting its historical context, chemical principles, and practical applications. It discusses the contributions of Rudolph Diesel, who originally designed his engine to run on vegetable oil, and examines the modern shift toward biodiesel as an environmentally friendly solution to energy ...

This lab series challenges students to make and analyze biodiesel using soybean oil as a renewable fuel. It aligns with the NGSS Energy standards for K-12 classrooms. The lesson encourages students to tackle global issues with evidence and scientific reasoning. This lab enhances discussions on energy by exploring biodiesel as an alternative to petroleum-based diesel.

Full citation: Rosa, P. D. L ...

The integration of green chemistry principles in academics reflects growing student interest in renewable resources and environmental sustainability, driven by increasing awareness of global climate change. Educators must continually expand their green chemistry pedagogy to align with current industry and research trends. In this article, the synthesis of epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) was explored ...