Which of the following is NOT a typical step in the organic reaction procedure?

Withholding safety equipment is not a typical step in the organic reaction procedure because safety equipment is essential for ensuring the well-being of individuals in the laboratory environment. In organic chemistry, reactions often involve hazardous materials, and proper use of safety equipment—such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats—is critical to prevent accidents and exposure to harmful substances.

In contrast, the other options represent standard practices in organic reactions. Heating the mixture is a common technique used to accelerate reactions or achieve the desired temperature conditions for a reaction to proceed. Collecting infrared (IR) spectra is an important analytical step to characterize the products of organic reactions and confirm the presence of functional groups. Separating with distilled water is also a common practice in the work-up phase of reactions to remove inorganic impurities or to extract desired organic compounds. Each of these practices plays a vital role in both the execution and analysis of organic reactions, highlighting the importance of safety equipment as a preventive measure rather than a procedural step.