The discovery of a method to produce sodium borohydride established Herbert C. Brown as a central figure in modern organic synthesis. His investigation into boron-hydrogen compounds fundamentally altered how chemists approached the reduction of carbonyl groups. This work culminated in his recognition as a Nobel laureate, transforming theoretical observations into a diverse spectrum of practical chemical reagents.
Early Education and Career Beginnings
Born in London in 1912, Brown relocated to Chicago in 1914. His academic journey included studies at Wilbur Wright College and Malcolm X College. He matriculated at the University of Chicago in 1935, completing his degree in one year and obtaining his Ph.D. His early professional appointments included an instructorship at the University of Chicago and a position at Wayne State University before he settled at Purdue University in 1947.
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Working in the laboratory of Hermann Irving Schlesinger at the University of Chicago, Brown examined the reactions of diborane. This research led to the successful synthesis of sodium borohydride, a compound capable of reducing aldehydes and ketones under mild conditions. By experimenting with various metal ions, he expanded the capabilities of these hydrides, creating a comprehensive array of reagents for chemical synthesis.
Hydroboration-Oxidation Methodology
A pivotal advancement occurred through the observation of an interaction between sodium borohydride and ethyl oleate. B. C. Subba Rao, Brown identified that boron and hydrogen added across a carbon-carbon double bond. This discovery, termed hydroboration-oxidation, provided a method to produce anti-Markovnikov alcohols, significantly advancing the field of synthetic organic chemistry.
Professional Recognition and Legacy
Brown received extensive recognition for his contributions, including the 1979 Nobel Prize in Chemistry and the 1969 National Medal of Science. He held membership in the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Serving as a professor at Purdue University until 1978, he remained Professor Emeritus until his death in 2004, leaving behind a laboratory named in his honor.
Fast facts
- Born: 1912, London
- Died: 2004, West Lafayette
- Nobel Prize in Chemistry: 1979
- National Medal of Science: 1969
- Perkin Medal: 1982
- Citizenship: United Kingdom, United States
- Primary Field: Organic Chemistry
- Burial Place: Jewish Cemetery of Greater Lafayette
Questions readers ask
What is hydroboration-oxidation?
It is a two-step chemical reaction discovered by Brown and Dr. B. C. Subba Rao that converts alkenes into anti-Markovnikov alcohols.
Which major awards did Herbert C. Brown receive?
His honors included the Nobel Prize in Chemistry (1979), the National Medal of Science (1969), and the Perkin Medal (1982), among others.
Achievements
- Nobel Prize in Chemistry — 1979
- National Medal of Science — 1969
- Priestley Medal — 1981
- Held posts at Purdue University, University of Chicago and Wayne State University
- Educated at Malcolm X College, University of Chicago and Wilbur Wright College
- Fields of research: organic chemistry
