50+ Research Associate Interview Questions and Answers for Freshers

Aldol condensation, Michael addition, Wittig reaction, Grignard reaction are some name reactions to form new c-c bond without metal catalyst.

• Aldol condensation involves the reaction of an enolate ion with an aldehyde or ketone to form a β-hydroxy carbonyl compound.

• Michael addition involves the addition of a nucleophile to an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compound.

• Wittig reaction involves the reaction of a phosphorus ylide with an aldehyde or ketone to form an alkene.

• Grignard react...read more

To separate acid from an acid-base mixture in liquid state, we can use various methods such as solvent extraction, distillation, or ion exchange.

• Solvent extraction involves adding a solvent that selectively dissolves the acid, then separating the two layers.

• Distillation involves heating the mixture to vaporize the acid, then condensing it back into a separate container.

• Ion exchange involves passing the mixture through a resin that selectively binds to the acid, then eluting t...read more

The desired product of bromination on aniline is 2,4,6-tribromoaniline. The desired product of bromination on toluene is bromotoluene.

• Bromination on aniline results in the substitution of three bromine atoms on the aromatic ring, yielding 2,4,6-tribromoaniline.

• Bromination on toluene results in the substitution of one bromine atom on the aromatic ring, yielding bromotoluene.

Esters can be converted to aldehydes by hydrolysis under acidic conditions.

• Esters can be hydrolyzed to aldehydes using a strong acid, such as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid.

• The reaction involves the cleavage of the ester bond and the formation of a carboxylic acid intermediate, which is then further reduced to an aldehyde.

• The reaction can be carried out at elevated temperatures or using a catalyst, such as p-toluenesulfonic acid.

• For example, ethyl acetate can be converted...read more

The Grignard reaction on an aldehyde will produce a secondary alcohol.

• The Grignard reaction involves the addition of a Grignard reagent (organomagnesium compound) to an aldehyde or ketone.

• The reaction proceeds through the formation of a carbon-carbon bond.

• In the case of an aldehyde, the product will be a secondary alcohol.

• For example, the reaction of formaldehyde (HCHO) with a Grignard reagent such as methylmagnesium bromide (CH3MgBr) will yield isopropyl alcohol (CH3CH(OH)CH...read more

The method for preparation of amide involves the reaction between a carboxylic acid and an amine.

• Amides can be prepared by the reaction of a carboxylic acid with an amine in the presence of a dehydrating agent.

• The reaction typically requires heating and can be catalyzed by an acid or base.

• The resulting product is an amide, which contains a carbonyl group bonded to a nitrogen atom.

• Example: The preparation of acetamide can be achieved by reacting acetic acid with ammonia in the...read more

Pd coupling reactions involve the cross-coupling of two different carbon atoms using palladium as a catalyst.

• Pd coupling reactions are widely used in organic synthesis to form carbon-carbon bonds.

• Examples include Suzuki coupling, Sonogashira coupling, Heck reaction, and Stille coupling.

• These reactions typically involve a palladium catalyst, a base, and appropriate coupling partners.

• Suzuki coupling involves the reaction of an aryl halide with an organoboron compound.

• Sonogashir...read more

Synthesized 2-methylcyclohexanol from cyclohexene using acid-catalyzed hydration.

• Started with cyclohexene and added concentrated sulfuric acid to protonate the double bond.

• Water was then added to the reaction mixture, which attacked the carbocation intermediate to form a tertiary alcohol.

• The product was then extracted and purified via distillation.

• 2-methylcyclohexanol was characterized using IR and NMR spectroscopy.

The biaryl product can be synthesized through a variety of methods.

• One common method is the Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction.

• Another method is the Buchwald-Hartwig amination reaction.

• Transition metal-catalyzed C-H activation can also be used.

• Examples of biaryl products include biphenyl and terphenyl.

Mass spectra of bromo chloro containing compound

• Bromo chloro compounds can have multiple isomers with different mass spectra

• The presence of bromine and chlorine atoms can cause fragmentation in the mass spectrum

• The mass spectrum can be used to determine the molecular weight and structural information of the compound

Reaction conditions for chemical transformations

• Reaction temperature

• Reaction time

• Catalyst used

• Solvent used

• Concentration of reactants

• pH of reaction mixture

• Pressure

• Stirring rate

• Light exposure

• Oxidizing or reducing agents used

Two liquid solvents can be separated using various methods such as distillation, extraction, and chromatography.

• Distillation involves heating the mixture to vaporize the solvent with the lower boiling point and then condensing it back into a liquid.

• Extraction involves using a solvent that selectively dissolves one of the solvents, allowing it to be separated from the mixture.

• Chromatography separates the solvents based on their different affinities for a stationary phase and a...read more

E-learning has benefits like flexibility, but plagiarism is a concern. Writing methods like paraphrasing and citation can help.

• E-learning allows for flexibility in learning schedules and locations

• E-learning can be cost-effective compared to traditional classroom learning

• Plagiarism is a concern in e-learning due to the ease of copying and pasting information

• To avoid plagiarism, one can use methods like paraphrasing and citing sources properly

• Paraphrasing involves restating inf...read more

Suzuki reaction acid amine coupling is a chemical reaction used to synthesize biaryl compounds.

• It involves the coupling of an aryl halide with an amine in the presence of a palladium catalyst and a base.

• The reaction can be used to synthesize a variety of biaryl compounds, which have applications in materials science and pharmaceuticals.

• The reaction is named after its discoverer, Japanese chemist Akira Suzuki.

• Example: Coupling of phenylboronic acid with aniline to form bipheny...read more

Diastereomers and enantiomers are types of stereoisomers that differ in their spatial arrangement.

• Diastereomers are stereoisomers that have different configurations at one or more chiral centers but are not mirror images of each other.

• Enantiomers are stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other.

• Diastereomers have different physical and chemical properties, while enantiomers have identical physical properties but may differ in their biological activity...read more

Neurotoxin can cause a range of symptoms in mice including tremors, seizures, paralysis, and respiratory distress.

• Tremors and convulsions

• Paralysis

• Respiratory distress

• Decreased activity and appetite

• Loss of coordination

• Death

• Symptoms may vary depending on the type and dose of neurotoxin

I will research recent property sales in the area, consult real estate websites, and speak with local real estate agents.

• Research recent property sales in the area

• Consult real estate websites for current listings and prices

• Speak with local real estate agents for market insights

• Consider factors such as location, size, and condition of properties in the area

• Compare prices with similar properties in neighboring areas

The question covers various topics in organic chemistry including named reactions, NMR spectroscopy, and general concepts.

• Named reactions are specific organic reactions that have been given a name to make them easier to remember and discuss. Examples include the Grignard reaction and the Diels-Alder reaction.

• NMR spectroscopy is a technique used to determine the structure of organic molecules by analyzing their nuclear magnetic resonance. It can provide information about the n...read more

The proton NMR peak of methyl aldehyde appears as a singlet at around 9-10 ppm.

• The proton NMR spectrum of methyl aldehyde shows a singlet peak.

• The chemical shift of the peak is typically around 9-10 ppm.

• The singlet peak indicates that the methyl aldehyde molecule has no neighboring protons.

Employee dismissal and employee discharge are two different terms used to describe the termination of an employee's contract.

• Employee dismissal is when an employee is fired due to poor performance or misconduct.

• Employee discharge is when an employee is let go due to reasons beyond their control, such as company downsizing or restructuring.

• Dismissal is usually a result of the employee's actions, while discharge is usually a result of the company's actions.

• Dismissal is often im...read more

Bases are substances that can accept protons or donate pairs of electrons in chemical reactions.

• Common bases include sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH), and ammonia (NH3)

• Bases are used in various applications such as in household cleaning products, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals

• They are also used in laboratories for titrations and in the manufacturing of soaps and detergents

Porter's Five Forces is a framework for analyzing the competitive forces in an industry.

• Threat of new entrants

• Bargaining power of suppliers

• Bargaining power of buyers

• Threat of substitute products or services

• Rivalry among existing competitors

• Example: The airline industry

• - Threat of new entrants: High capital requirements and government regulations make it difficult for new airlines to enter the market.

• - Bargaining power of suppliers: Aircraft manufacturers have significant barg...read more

Quantitative analysis involves numerical data and statistical methods, while qualitative analysis focuses on non-numerical data and subjective interpretations.

• Quantitative analysis involves the use of mathematical and statistical tools to analyze numerical data.

• Qualitative analysis focuses on understanding non-numerical data such as text, images, and videos.

• Quantitative analysis is objective and relies on measurable data points.

• Qualitative analysis is subjective and involves ...read more

McKinsey's 7S Framework is a management model that helps analyze and align various elements of an organization.

• The 7S Framework consists of seven interdependent elements: Strategy, Structure, Systems, Skills, Staff, Style, and Shared Values.

• These elements are categorized into hard elements (Strategy, Structure, Systems) and soft elements (Skills, Staff, Style, Shared Values).

• The framework emphasizes the importance of aligning all seven elements to achieve organizational effec...read more

FCFF stands for Free Cash Flow to Firm. It is the cash flow available to all investors in a company.

• FCFF is a measure of a company's financial performance.

• It is calculated by subtracting capital expenditures and working capital investments from operating cash flow.

• FCFF is used to determine the amount of cash a company can generate after accounting for its capital expenditures.

• It is important for investors as it helps them to determine the value of a company's stock.

• Example: I...read more

Insight Alpha is a platform that connects clients with industry experts for research and insights.

• Insight Alpha provides access to a network of experts in various industries for research purposes.

• Clients can request specific information or insights from experts through the platform.

• The platform helps clients make informed decisions based on expert advice and industry knowledge.

The concentration term refers to the amount of solute in a solution. The potential of hydrogen (pH) measures the acidity or basicity of a solution.

• Concentration term is usually expressed in units such as molarity, molality, or percent concentration.

• pH is measured on a scale of 0-14, with 7 being neutral, below 7 acidic, and above 7 basic.

• The pH of a solution can affect the behavior of molecules in the solution, such as enzymes or proteins.

• The concentration of hydrogen ions (H...read more

CtoC, CtoB, and BtoC are business models that describe the type of transactions between different entities.

• CtoC stands for consumer-to-consumer and refers to transactions between individual consumers, such as selling items on eBay or Craigslist.

• CtoB stands for consumer-to-business and refers to transactions where a consumer sells a product or service to a business, such as a freelance writer selling an article to a magazine.

• BtoC stands for business-to-consumer and refers to t...read more

Benzene can be converted to toluene through various methods.

• One method is the Friedel-Crafts alkylation reaction, where benzene reacts with methyl chloride in the presence of a Lewis acid catalyst to form toluene.

• Another method is the catalytic hydrogenation of benzene, where benzene is reacted with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst such as platinum or palladium to yield toluene.

• Benzene can also be converted to toluene through the toluene disproportionation reaction, whe...read more

Molecular weight is calculated by summing the atomic weights of all atoms in a molecule.

• The atomic weight of an element can be found on the periodic table.

• Multiply the atomic weight of each element by the number of atoms in the molecule.

• Add up the results to get the molecular weight.

• For example, the molecular weight of water (H2O) is calculated as (2*1.008) + (1*16.00) = 18.02 g/mol.

A top-down approach is a problem-solving or decision-making method that starts with the highest-level goal or objective and breaks it down into smaller, more manageable tasks or components.

• Starts with the overall objective or goal

• Breaks it down into smaller tasks or components

• Focuses on the big picture first

• Provides a high-level view before diving into details

• Commonly used in project management and software development

• Example: In software development, a top-down approach invo...read more

Balanced Scorecard is a strategic management tool used to measure and improve performance across four perspectives.

• It includes financial, customer, internal processes, and learning and growth perspectives.

• It helps organizations align their strategy with their goals and objectives.

• It provides a framework for measuring and monitoring performance.

• Example: A company may use the balanced scorecard to track customer satisfaction, employee engagement, financial performance, and proc...read more

To calculate moles of benzoic acid, divide the given mass by its molar mass.

• Determine the mass of benzoic acid given in the problem.

• Find the molar mass of benzoic acid.

• Divide the mass by the molar mass to get the number of moles.

• Use the formula: moles = mass / molar mass.

• Example: If given mass is 10 grams and molar mass is 122.12 g/mol, then moles of benzoic acid = 0.0819 mol.

The molecular weight of HCL is 36.46 g/mol.

• HCL stands for hydrochloric acid.

• The molecular weight is calculated by adding the atomic weights of hydrogen (H) and chlorine (Cl).

• The atomic weight of hydrogen is 1.00784 g/mol and chlorine is 35.453 g/mol.

• So, the molecular weight of HCL is 1.00784 + 35.453 = 36.46 g/mol.

The NMR peak of ethyl acetate typically appears around 1.2-2.0 ppm.

• The NMR peak of ethyl acetate is usually observed as a singlet around 1.2-2.0 ppm.

• The peak may shift slightly depending on the solvent used for the NMR analysis.

• The chemical structure of ethyl acetate consists of an ethyl group and an acetate group, which contribute to the NMR peak.

• The peak intensity and splitting pattern can provide additional information about the molecule.

Bioanalytical development and validation involves the creation and testing of methods to analyze biological samples.

• Developing and optimizing methods for sample preparation, chromatography, and mass spectrometry

• Validating methods to ensure accuracy, precision, and reproducibility

• Following regulatory guidelines such as FDA and EMA

• Examples include developing a method to measure drug levels in blood or urine, or validating a method to detect biomarkers in tissue samples

ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. It is a framework used to evaluate a company's sustainability and ethical practices.

• Environmental factors include a company's impact on climate change, natural resources, and pollution.

• Social factors include a company's impact on its employees, customers, and communities.

• Governance factors include a company's leadership, transparency, and accountability.

• Investors use ESG criteria to make investment decisions that align wit...read more

NMR peaks of solvents are important for identifying and quantifying compounds in solution.

• Different solvents have different NMR peaks due to their unique chemical structures

• Common solvents used in NMR spectroscopy include CDCl3, DMSO-d6, and acetone-d6

• The NMR peaks of solvents can interfere with the peaks of the compound being studied, so it is important to choose a solvent with minimal interference

• The chemical shift of the solvent peak can also be used as a reference point f...read more

Nike Air and Nike Zoom are both cushioning technologies used in Nike shoes, but they differ in their construction and purpose.

• Nike Air technology uses pressurized air in a flexible bag to provide cushioning and impact protection.

• Nike Zoom technology uses tightly stretched fibers in the midsole to provide responsive cushioning and energy return.

• Nike Air is more focused on impact protection and comfort, while Nike Zoom is designed for a more responsive and springy feel.

• Nike Air...read more

PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller. It is a digital computer used for automation of electromechanical processes.

• PLC is used to control and monitor industrial processes.

• It is programmed using ladder logic or other programming languages.

• PLCs are commonly used in manufacturing, power plants, and transportation systems.

• Example: A PLC can be used to control the operation of a conveyor belt in a factory.

• The PLC receives input signals from sensors to detect the presence of...read more

PTC stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction. It is a technique used to amplify DNA sequences.

• Denaturation: DNA is heated to separate the strands.

• Annealing: Primers are added to bind to the complementary sequences.

• Extension: Taq polymerase adds nucleotides to the primers to create new strands.

• Repeat: The process is repeated to amplify the DNA exponentially.

• Final extension: A final extension step is added to ensure all strands are fully extended.

• PTC is used in various fields such ...read more

Cipher suite is a set of cryptographic algorithms used to secure network connections.

• Cipher suite determines the encryption and authentication algorithms used in a network connection.

• It includes protocols like SSL and TLS.

• Examples of cipher suites include TLS_RSA_WITH_AES_128_CBC_SHA and TLS_ECDHE_RSA_WITH_AES_256_GCM_SHA384.

Coupling reactions involve the formation of a new bond between two molecules.

• Suzuki coupling: coupling of an organoboron compound with an organohalide using a palladium catalyst

• Heck reaction: coupling of an alkene with an aryl or vinyl halide using a palladium catalyst

• Sonogashira coupling: coupling of an aryl or vinyl halide with a terminal alkyne using a palladium catalyst

Molecular dynamics is a simulation method used to study the movements and interactions of atoms and molecules over time.

• It involves solving Newton's equations of motion for a system of interacting particles.

• It can provide insights into the behavior of biological molecules, materials, and chemical reactions.

• Examples include studying protein folding, drug binding to receptors, and material properties at the atomic level.

Principles behind techniques refer to the fundamental concepts and theories that guide the development and application of research methods.

• Principles help ensure accuracy, reliability, and validity of research findings

• Techniques should be based on sound scientific principles and ethical considerations

• Examples of principles include randomization, blinding, and control groups

• Principles may vary depending on the field of research and the specific research question

Virtual screening is a computational technique used in drug discovery to identify potential drug candidates by simulating interactions between small molecules and target proteins.

• Virtual screening involves using computer algorithms to predict the binding affinity of small molecules to target proteins.

• It helps in identifying potential drug candidates faster and more cost-effectively compared to traditional experimental methods.

• Examples of virtual screening tools include AutoDo...read more

Analytical instruments principle involves using various techniques to analyze samples and obtain accurate results.

• Analytical instruments use principles of spectroscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry.

• Spectroscopy involves measuring the interaction between matter and electromagnetic radiation.

• Chromatography separates components in a mixture based on their different affinities for a stationary phase.

• Mass spectrometry identifies and quantifies molecules based on their mas...read more