Contextualization

Theoretical Introduction

Organic salts are compounds that consist of at least one carbon atom, bonded to one or more hydrogen atoms and may also contain oxygen, nitrogen, halogens, sulfur, etc. Organic salts can originate from the neutralization reaction of organic acids and bases. Examples of organic salts include: soaps, fertilizers, explosives, etc.

The nomenclature of organic salts follows a distinct convention. First, the anion is identified and then the cation is identified. The anion comes from the acid and the cation from the base that reacted with each other. For salts derived from inorganic acids, the nomenclature is done through the acid termination, if the termination is "ous", the salt will end in -ous; if the termination is "ic", the salt will end in -ate. In salts derived from organic acids, the termination "oate" is used instead of "ate".

Salts, in general, are fundamental substances for our bodies. Table salt, for example, is necessary for the proper functioning of the body. However, excessive consumption can lead to health problems such as hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. In the case of organic salts, we have examples of salts important for health such as sodium acetate (a type of organic salt) which is used as a food preservative and also in the production of paints and coatings.

Importance and Applications of Organic Salts in the Real World

Organic salts have several practical applications of utmost importance in our daily lives. In food, many of them are used as preservatives to increase the shelf life of products. In the cosmetic industry, they are key components in the production of soaps, shampoos, conditioners, etc. In the pharmaceutical production sector, they are used in the manufacturing of different types of medications, aiming at the treatment of various diseases.

The study of organic salts and their nomenclature, therefore, is not only necessary for understanding the fundamentals of organic chemistry, but it is also essential to understand the products we consume daily.

Activity

Title: The Universe of Organic Salts: Unraveling the Nomenclature

Objectives:

1. Develop the technical ability to identify and name organic salts.
2. Understand the application of organic salts in different contexts of daily life.
3. Improve socio-emotional skills such as teamwork, effective communication, and time management.
4. Develop a well-structured project report, with theory, experiment, discussions, and conclusions.

Project Description:

Each group of students will explore the subject of organic salts by building a three-dimensional (3D) model of different organic salts using recyclable materials.

The second part of the project involves researching and exploring at least three applications of these salts in daily life, including in the food sector, cosmetics, medications, among others.

Required Materials:

1. Recyclable materials (plastic cups, caps, sticks, etc.)
2. Glue, tape
3. Paper, pencil, colored pens
4. Computer with internet access

Step by Step:

1. Study: Start by researching organic salts and their nomenclature using the indicated resources and others of your choice. Each group member should make individual notes on the main points.

2. Discussion and Planning: Meet with your group and share your findings and understandings. Decide together which organic salts you will build for the model and how you will do it.

3. Construction of the 3D Model: Use recyclable materials to build 3D models of the chosen organic salts. Make sure the models are correct and clearly identified.

4. Research on Applications: Research and document at least three real-world applications of organic salts in different sectors (food, cosmetics, medications, etc.).

5. Preparation of the Report: Write a well-structured report documenting the entire project process. The report should include an introduction to the topic (based on initial research), the chosen organic salts and the reason for the choice, the description and difficulties in creating the 3D model, the researched applications, and finally, the conclusions drawn throughout the project. Include a bibliography list.

6. Review and Editing: Review and edit the report as a group to ensure that all information is correct and well presented.

7. Project Submission: Submit the report and the 3D models to the teacher within the established deadline.

The completion of this project should take approximately 5 to 10 hours per student and the total duration of the project should be one month.

Project Deliverables:

1. 3D Models of Organic Salts: The models will create a visual connection with the abstract concept of organic salts and contribute to the understanding of their nomenclature.
2. Project Report: The report will ensure that students understand the theoretical concepts, comprehend the practical application of organic salts, and are able to communicate their findings effectively. Additionally, the report will allow for the assessment of students' writing and presentation skills.

Students should ensure that the models and the report complement each other and demonstrate a deep understanding of the topic. Furthermore, the report should be written in a way that anyone, even without prior knowledge of the subject, can understand the work done.