Final answer:
Chemists synthesize natural compounds in the laboratory to develop drugs that are safer and more effective, and to produce them more efficiently and at a lower cost. This synthesis is essential for pharmaceutical research, where isolation from natural sources can be complex and cost-prohibitive.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chemists often try to synthesize compounds in chemical laboratories that exist in nature for several reasons. One significant reason is to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of producing these compounds. Pharmaceutical chemists are particularly interested in synthesizing natural compounds when developing new drugs.
These synthesized compounds may be modified in the lab to enhance their safety and effectiveness compared to their natural counterparts.
In the context of chemical manufacturing plants, knowing how much of a compound is produced in a reaction is crucial for process improvement. This knowledge can lead to more product being created at a lower cost.
Moreover, natural sources may provide complex compounds that are difficult to isolate and purify, necessitating their synthesis in the laboratory for adequate quantities to be available for research, development, and testing.
The pharmaceutical industry involves extensive research to develop better ways to make drugs faster and more cost-efficient. This research is important for cost control and ensuring that the final products meet the target product profile while minimizing potential toxicity liabilities.