The chemistry of a-hydroxylamino acids is critically reviewed. An attempt has been made to establish a general synthesis of a-hydroxylamino acids from a-bromo acids. A comparison of the use of cation and anion exchange columns as a means of purification has been included. The results of paper and thin layer chromatography of a-hydroxylamino acids have been reported. a-Hydroxylamine acids have been shown to be intermediates in the conversion of a-bromo acids to a-oximino acids with excess hydroxylamine. In addition, a new base-catalyzed decomposition of a-hydroxylamino acids to a-keto acids and ammonia is described. / Thesis / Master of Science (MS)