Labs/Investigations

The chemistry laboratory is a place to explore and experiment. The goal is not to know that a scientific theory exists or a mathematical theorem provides an answer, but why and how. It is one of many stages that offer a collaborative, team-based setting in producing knowledge and connecting atomic interactions to the natural phenomena that we experience and see on a daily basis. The laboratory is beyond simply learning content, but the environment where students engage in learning from mistakes and problem solving.

Picture above shows CoCl₂ in Na₂SiO₃ solution from Beautiful Chemical Reactions from L2 Molecule on Vimeo.

LAB TECHNIQUES

Below are resources on specific laboratory techniques and background information on various types of analysis that you might find in some laboratory investigations.

Using an Analytical Balance

General Spectroscopy

Visible Light Spectroscopy

Using a Buret

Titrations

Second Derivative (Determine Equivalence Point)

Gran Plot (Determine Equivalence Point)

CurTiPot

Gravimetric Analysis

includes: Quantitative transfer and filtration (gravity and vacuum)

Calibration/ Standard Curve

Distillation

Purpose of lab work:

In order to get the most out of lab work, it is important to keep in mind the main purposes of lab work is:
1. Develop an understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work;
2. Gain skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment and instruments used;
3. Learn to work with others (i.e., carry out complex tasks, share the work of the task, assume different roles, and contribute and respond to ideas);
4. Develop safe and conscientious lab habits, techniques and procedures.

Required Materials:

All students should maintain a laboratory notebook during the year and follow the guidelines provided when using it.

Programs Used:

FORMAL LAB REPORT RESOURCES

All Science is formed necessarily of three things: the series of facts which constitute the science; the ideas which they call forth; the words which express them. - Lavoisier

START HERE: Overview Formal Lab Report

MORE HELP AND RESOURCES: http://www.help.chemdunn.org

Formal lab report eligible labs are listed to the right. One from each list must be selected each semester.

Semester 1

LB#5 - %Fe Content in Iron Tablet

LB#7 - Molar Volume of a Gas

LB#8 - %Cu in Brass

Semester 2

LB#12 - Hess's Law/ MgO

LB #14 - Crystal Violet Kinetics