FACULTY OF SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

OF APPLIED CHEMISTRY

MICROCHEMISTRY PRACTICAL MANUAL

CHEMISTRY 1 PRACTICAL

CETM1A1

ENGINEERING METALLURGY
EXTRACTION METALLURGY

PRINTED WITH SPECIAL PERMISSION FROM

RADMASTE CENTRE AND SOMERSET EDUCATIONAL
 SCHEDULE Chemistry 1 PRACTICALS (CET1AMP)

EXT/MET ENG: 08:00 REFERENCES

DATE: WEDNESDAY 10:25 (CHEMISTRY: THE CENTRAL SCIENCE
BROWN, LE MAY AND BURSTEN)
CHEM ENG: WED 12:10
14:35
8th February 2017 Introduction: General laboratory rules and instructions on the
purchase of Microchemistry kits and manuals. Introduction to
Microchemistry
15th February 2017 Induction: Safety video
Practical: A4 & B20 Chapter 1.2 Classification of matter
22nd February 2017 Chapter 3.1 Chemical equations
Chapter 7.4 Ionization energy
Chapter 7.6 Metals
1st March 2017 Tutorials Chapter 1 Matter and its properties
Chapter 2 Atoms, molecules and
ions
Chapter 3 Chemical reactions
Chapter 6 Electronic structure of an
atom
Chapter 7 Periodic properties of the
elements
8th March 2017 Practical: B27 & B12 Chapter 3.1 Chemical equations
Chapter 3.4 The Mole
Chapter 4.2 Precipitation reactions
15th March 2016 Tutorials Chapter 4 Reactions in aqueous
solutions

22nd March 2017 Practical: B2 & B18 Chapter 4.3 Acid Base reactions
Chapter 4.5 Concentrations of
solutions
Chapter 4.6 Titrations
Chapter 22.7 Nitrogen
29th March 2017 Major test 1 Experiments: A4, B20, B27, B12, B2
& B18

5th April 2017 Practical: A16 & B17 Chapter 4.4 Oxidation-Reduction
Reactions
Chapter 7.6 Metals
Chapter 4.4 Oxidation-Reduction
Reactions
19th April 2017 Practical: B1 Chapter 15 Concepts of chemical
equilibrium

26th April 2017 Tutorials Chapter 15 Concepts of chemical

equilibrium

3th May 2017 Practical: B25 Chapter 15 Concepts of chemical

equilibrium

10th May 2017 Major Test 2 All of the above

 INTRODUCTION

GENERAL TECHNIQUES - STUDENTS

i
The purpose of the following pages on GENERAL TECHNIQUES is to provide you, the student,
with important information required in different experiments.
1) MICROBURNER
How to make a micro burner:
The items needed to construct the microburner are provided in the kit. They are:
A plastic sample vial.
A plastic lid with a large hole in the centre of the lid and a smaller hole at the edge.
A piece of string (8-10 cm long).
A glass tube (5 cm x 4 mm).
Methylated spirits [Ch3).
Step 1: Push the piece of string through the glass tube so that a short length of string projects out
of one end of the tube and a longer piece extends from the other end.
Step 2: Remove the plastic lid from the sample vial. Fit the glass tube with string into the large
hole in the centre of the plastic lid. The short length of string should be at the upper end
of the tube.
Step 3: Half fill the sample vial with methylated spirits.
Step 4: Replace the lid. Wait a few minutes to allow the methylated spirits to soak into the
string. Light the microburner by placing a lighted match at the exposed bit of string.
Step 5: Blow out the flame when you have finished using the micro burner.

Always extinguish the flame of the micro burner after you have finished using it, otherwise it
may topple over accidentally and start a fire.

ii
2) COMBOPLATE
The comboplate contains small and large wells that are used instead of glass apparatus such as
beakers, test tubes, watch glasses etc. It is read as a grid, with the letters A-F along the vertical of
the comboplate and the numbers 1-12 along the horizontal for the small wells, and 1-6 along the
horizontal for the large wells. e.g. if an instruction reads: Add two drops of water to well D[2],
move your finger down the side of the comboplate to the D row of small wells, and then across
the row to the second small well.
How to clean the wells in a comboplate.
The wells can be cleaned in a number of ways:
a) Hold the comboplate under running tap water. This rinses the wells free of chemical
residue.
b) Place the comboplate in a container with tap water. (The water should be sufficient to
cover the wells.) Allow the wells to soak until clean.
c) If a precipitate has settled in a well, roll up a piece of tissue paper, wet it, then push it into
the well. Twist the tissue paper around in the well a few times until the precipitate has
been wiped off completely.
d) If available, a cotton bud or pipe cleaner can be used to remove a residue from a well.
Similarly, a small piece of cotton wool can be twirled around the pointed end of a
wooden skewer, moistened with water and used to clean the well. A particularly stubborn
residue can be removed by soaking the cotton bud or cotton wool in concentrated
hydrochloric acid before wiping.
e) If a precipitate remains lodged in a well, the comboplate can be flushed out with boiling
water. (This is particularly helpful in Experiment B 12 to remove a lead iodide precipitate
that has not been immediately washed out of a well.)
f) If the well is still stained even after following e), use a thin stemmed propette to add a
sufficient number of drops of 11 M hydrochloric acid to the affected well to cover the stain.
Soak the well until the stain disappears, but avoid prolonged soaking as the acid may
also stain the well.
g) Ask the teacher for special instructions (contained in the teacher's guide) regarding the
cleaning of wells in certain experiments, such as adding a mixture of sulphuric acid and
hydrogen peroxide to well F[1] in Experiment B15 to remove an otherwise permanent
brown stain .
It is strongly advised that the wells are cleaned as soon as possible after practical work has
been completed. This will minimise the chances of deterioration of the plastic.
How to dry the wells in a comboplate
The wells can be dried in a number of ways:
a) Shake the comboplate until all the drops of water have come out of the wells.
b) Tap the top surface of the comboplate gently onto a piece of paper towel.
c) Roll up a piece of dry tissue paper and push it into each well with a twisting motion until
all the wells are dry.

3
3) PROPETTES
The thin stemmed propettes are used to deliver drops of liquids and solutions.
How to use a propette
:

Step 1: Squeeze the bulb of the propette

between your thumb and forefinger to
force out all of the air in the bulb.
Step 2: Hold the propette with the bulb pressed
in and place the stem of the propette into
the desired solution.

Step 3: Release the bulb of the propette and

allow it to slowly fill with the solution.
The bulb of the propette should be at least
half filled with solution. If there is too
little solution in the bulb, air bubbles may
accumulate in the stem of the propette
and affect the drop size delivered by the
propette.

Step 4: When the bulb has filled with solution,

remove the propette from the solution.
Press gently on the bulb of the propette
to allow the solution to flow down the
stem and form a drop at the end. The
pressure on the bulb of the propette must
be carefully controlled to ensure that
each drop delivered is of the same size.
This may require some practice.

4
4) SYRINGE
The syringe is graduated in 0,1 ml intervals up to 2,5 ml. It is therefore used to deliver measured
volumes of liquids and solutions.
How to use the syringe:
Step 1: Insert the clean, dry tip of the syringe into the solution. Gently pull the plunger of the
syringe upwards and fill the syringe to the required volume. Do not remove the plunger
and try to fill the syringe from the top using a propette. The solution will flow out through
the syringe nozzle and onto you!
Step 2: To dispense the solution into a well of the comboplate~. hold the syringe just above
the well and push down gently on the plunger of the syringe until the required volume
of solution is in the well.
Never hold the syringe so that the nozzle faces upwards! Slight pressure on the plunger of the
syringe may cause the solution to squirt upwards and into the eye.
5) LIDS
The Microchemistry kit contains two lids which fit into the large wells in the comboplate.
These lids are used to seal the large wells in an experiment where gases are generated. One lid
has a collection into which the syringe nozzle fits to enable a solution to be injected into the well
in which a gas is to be formed. This lid is referred to as LID 1. The other lid has a vent to allow
gaseous products to escape from the well over which it is placed. This lid is referred to as LID 2.
Each lid also has a tube collection to allow for the lids to be connected to one another using the
silicone tube in the kit. The gaseous products generated in the well sealed with LID 1, can then be
collected in water or another solution in the well sealed with LID 2.

6) MICROSPATULAS
Each kit contains 8 plastic microspatulas, all of which are connected to a central piece of plastic.
To remove a microspatula, break the joining at the narrow end of the microspatula by pulling the
spatula away from the piece of plastic. Each microspatula has a spooned end and a narrow end,
emulating a conventional spatula. The spoon is used to add uniform quantities of solid
chemicals to a well in the comboplate. The narrow end is used when small quantities of solid
chemicals are needed, especially when the chemical needs to be inserted into a narrow glass tube.
The narrow end can also be used to stir mixtures or solutions in a well.
7) DILUTING 5.5 M HYDROCHLORIC ACID
In certain experiments, such as B15, A9 and A10, one of the chemical requirements is 2.75 M
hydrochloric acid (HCl). However, 5.5 M HCI is supplied. A 1:1 dilution of the 5.5 M hydrochloric
acid is needed to prepare the 2.75 M HCI. To do this, first determine what volume of the 2.75 M
HCI you require.

5
For example, if you want about 2 ml of2.75 M HCI, then add 1 ml of 5.5 M HCI slowly to 1 ml
of water in one of the large wells in the comboplate. Use the syringe to dispense these volumes
of acid and water. Mix the two thoroughly. The required volume at the required concentration is
then available for use.

1) Never add water to acid. This is extremely dangerous. Always add the acid slowly to water.
2) If any acid is spilt on your hands during the dilution process, immediately wash your hands
with water.

6
PRACTICAL 1: (A4): ELECTROLYSIS OF WATER

EXPERIMENT A4: ELECTROLYSIS OF WATER

Focus Question 1: What happens to water when an electric current is passed through it?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Sodium hydroxide pellets, NaOH(s)
1 x plastic microspatula *Tap water
1 x propette
2 x drinking straw electrodes
2 x red plastic coated copper wires with exposed ends
1 x black plastic coated copper wire with exposed ends
2 x silicone tubes (4 cm x 4 mm)
1 x microburner
1 x current indicator (LED) with wire connections
1 x small sample VIAL
*1 x box matches
*1 x 9V heavy duty battery or 2 x 1,5 V batteries
The items marked with an asterisk (*) are not supplied in the equipment kit.
Sodium hydroxide will be added to tap water in this experiment to increase the conductivity of the
tap water.
A LED (light emitting diode) is an electronic light bulb.
The methylated spirits used in the microburner is poisonous. Do not inhale the vapour or drink the
liquid.

7
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Push the current indicator into well E[6] of the comboplate.
2. Mark each of the drinking straw electrodes into 1 cm units using a permanent marker pen. Let one of
the electrodes be called electrode 1 and the other electrode 2.
3. Remove the lid from the small sample vial and then half fill the vial with tap water. Place this sample
vial into well E[5] next to the current indicator (in well E[6]).
4. Use the plastic microspatula to place 1 pellet of sodium hydroxide into the small sample vial and stir
until it has dissolved. Thereafter suck up some of this solution with the empty propette.
5. Hold electrode 1 with the open end upwards and insert the stem of the propette into the open end.
Force the water (containing dissolved sodium hydroxide, NaOH(aq) out until electrode 1 has been
completely filled.
6. Quickly turn electrode 1 the other way up and place it into the water in the small sample vial. Repeat
this procedure for electrode 2. (Return any remaining solution in the propette to the small sample vial).
Use tap water to thoroughly rinse your fingers free of the sodium hydroxide solution.
7. Connect the end of the long black wire from the current indicator to the negative() terminal of the
battery (see Fig. 1). Connect the end of the short black wire to electrode 1, by passing the exposed copper
wire through the loop on the end of the electrode (see Fig. l).
8. Connect the one end of the red wire to the positive(+) terminal of the battery(see Fig. 1). Connect the
other end of the red wire to electrode 2 in the same way as above (see Fig. l).
QUESTIONS:
Q1: What effect is there on the current indicator when the battery is connected to the electrodes?

A1:

Q2: What is the reason for your observation in question 1?

A2:

PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS (cont.):

9. Disconnect the current indicator from the circuit. Reconnect electrode 1 directly to the negative ()
terminal of the battery with the loose red wire supplied.
QUESTIONS (cont.):
Q3: What do you observe at the different electrodes?

A3:

PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS (cont.):

10. Let the substance produced in electrode 1 be called substance A Let the substance being produced in
electrode 2 be called substance B. (Periodically tap each electrode, with your finger to dislodge
substances A and B which may build up in localised areas.) When electrode 1 is full of substance A (at
the end of the last pen marking on the electrode), disconnect the battery from the circuit. This may
take approximately 10 minutes (or longer if you are using two 1.5 V cells).

QUESTIONS (cont.):
Q4: When electrode 1 is full of substance A, how much of substance B is there in electrode 2?

A4:

8
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS (cont.):
11. Light the microburner. Carefully remove electrode 1 from the water, sealing the open end with your
finger when it is out of the water.
12. Bring electrode 1 very close to the flame of the microburner (being careful not to burn yourself and the
straw). Remove your finger from the opening, allowing substance A to escape. When you have
observed what happens, thoroughly rinse your fingers with tap water.
QUESTIONS (cont.):
Q5: What happens when substance A is exposed to the flame?

A5:
Q6: What is the name given to substance A?

A6:

Q7: What is the name of substance B?

A7:
Q8: What test would you do to prove substance B is what you say it is?

A8:

Q9: Why was a greater volume of substance A produced than of substance B?

A9:

Q10: What is the answer to the focus question?

A10:

Q11: From question l 0, would you say that tap water is a compound, an element or a mixture? Explain your
answer.

A11:

END OF EXPERIMENT A4

9
PRACTICAL 1: (B20): REACTION OF GROUP 1 AND 2 METALS WITH WATER

PART 1: REACTION OF GROUP 1 METALS WITH WATER

Focus Question 1: Which of the Group 1 metals reacts faster with water: sodium or potassium?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
2 x big sample vials Universal Indicator solution
2 x propettes Potassium, K(s)
1 x knife Sodium, Na(s)
1 x unfolded paper clip Tap water
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Half fill VIAL [1] and [2] with tap water.
2. Add 1 drop of universal indicator solution to each VIAL and deduce their pH. (Hint: Use the
pH indicator colour strip.)

VIAL [1]

VIAL [2]
3. Remove a piece of sodium from the storage bottle and place it on a flat surface e.g. an old tile.
Press down gently on the metal with an unfolded paper clip so as to hold it firmly without
touching it with your fingers.
4. Scrape off any white oxide coating from the metal with a knife. Use the knife to cut a small
piece of Na(s) (about 2mm x 2mm). Add this small piece to VIAL [1].
QUESTIONS:
Q1: Describe what happens when sodium is added to the water in VIAL [1].

A1:

Q2: Does the pH of the solution in VIAL [1] change? (Explain).

A2:
Q3: Write a balanced chemical equation that represents the reaction which took place in VIAL [1].
A3:

PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS (cont.):

5. Clean the knife and paper clip and then use these as before to cut a piece of potassium metal about
the same size as the previous piece of sodium. Make sure that you scrape away any of the oxide
coating the knife.
6. Add the small piece of metal to VIAL [2].

QUESTIONS (cont.):
Q4: Describe what happens when potassium is added to the water in Vial [2].

A4:

10
Q5: Does the pH of the solution in VIAL [2] change? (Explain).

A5:
Q6: Write a balanced chemical equation that represents the reaction which took place in VIAL [2].
A6:
Q7: Compare the rates of reaction of sodium and potassium with water. (Hint: compare your answers
for Questions 1 and 4.)

A7:

Q8: Based on your observations, what is the answer to the focus question?

A8:
Rinse the vials with water and pat dry using paper towel.
PART 2: REACTION OF GROUP 2 METALS WITH WATER
Focus Question 2: Which of the Group 2 metals reacts faster with water: magnesium or calcium?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
2 x Big sample vials Universal Indicator solution
2 x propettes Calclium granules, Ca(s)
1 x microspatula Magnesium ribbon, Mg(s)
1 x piece of sandpaper Tap water
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Half fill VIAL [1] and [2] with tap water.
2. Add 1 drop of universal indicator solution to each VIAL and deduce their pH.

VIAL [1]

VIAL [2]
3. Cut a strip of magnesium ribbon Mg(s) so that the length is about 5mm. If the ribbon is dull,
rub it with a piece of sandpaper until it is shiny. Add the magnesium ribbon to VIAL [1].

QUESTIONS:
Q1: Describe what happens when magnesium is added to the water in VIAL [1].

A1:

Q2: Does the pH of the solution in VIAL [1] change? (Explain).

A2:
Q3: Write a balanced chemical equation that represents the reaction which took place in VIAL [1].
A3:

11
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS (cont.):
4. Use a plastic microspatula to add one granule of calcium to VIAL [2].

QUESTIONS (cont.):
Q4: Describe what happens when calcium is added to the water in VIAL [2].

A4:

Q5: Does the pH of the solution in VIAL [2] change? (Explain).

A5:
Q6: Write a balanced chemical equation that represents the reaction which took place in VIAL [2].
A6:
Q7: Compare the rates of reaction of calcium and magnesium with water.
A7:
Q8: Based on your observations, what is the answer to the focus question?

A8:

EXTENSION QUESTIONS (cont.):

Q9: Recall from your observations from parts 1 and 2 for the reactions of sodium and magnesium with
water. Which metal reacts faster with water: sodium or magnesium?

A9:

Q10: Recall from your observations from parts 1 and 2 for the reactions of potassium and calcium with
water. Which metal reacts faster with water: potassium of calcium?

A10:

Q11: Does the reactivity of Group 1 and 2 metals increase or decrease with increasing atomic number in
the GROUP?
A11:
Q12: Does the reactivity of Group 1 and 2 metals increase or decrease with increasing atomic number in
the PERIOD?
A12:
Q13: Predict whether aluminium would react faster or slower than magnesium with water.

A13:
Q14: Predict whether beryllium would react faster or slower than magnesium with water.

A14:

12
Q15: Identify the gas that was produced when each of the Group 1 and 2 metals investigated, reacted
with water.

A15:
Q16: How would you test for this gas without collecting it?
A16:

EXTENSION EXPERIMENT: REACTION OF CALCIUM WITH WATER

Focus Question 3: Is hydgrogen gas H2(g) produced when a Group 1 or Group 2 metal reacts with water?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
2 x big sample vials Calclium granules, Ca(s)
1 x propettes Tap Water
1 xbox matches
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Half fill VIAL [1] with tap water.
2. Remove a match from the box and keep this close to you.
3. Using the plastic microspatula, place one granule of calcium into the water in VIAL [1].
4. Quickly light the match and when the flame is small, hold the burning match .over VIAL [1]. What
happens while the match is being held over VIAL [l]?

QUESTIONS:
Q1: What is the answer to focus question 3?

A1:
Q2: Use your knowledge of reactivity of the Group 1 and 2 metals with water to explain why sodium,
potassium and magnesium were not used to test for the presence of hydrogen.

A2:

CLEANING
Discard all the contents of the VIALS down the drain and clean with tap water.
Make sure all reagents bottles are sealed and that your bench top is clean.
Wash your hands before leaving the laboratory.

13
PRACTICAL 2: (B27): SOLUBILITY OF SULPHATES IN
WATER (B12): PRECIPITATION REACTIONS
EXPERIMENT B27: SOLUBILITY OF SULPHATES IN WATER
Focus Question 1: What is the order of solubility of the sulphates of the Group 2 elements?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Magnesium nitrate solution, Mg(NO3)2(aq) [0,1 M]
5 x propettes Calcium nitrate solution, Ca(NO3)2(aq) [0,1 M]
1 x white paper Strontium nitrate solution Sr(NO3)2(aq) [0,1 M]
Barium nitrate solution, Ba(NO3)2(aq) [0,1 M]
Sodium sulphate solution, Na2SO4(aq) [0,1 M]
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Place the comboplate on a piece of white paper.
2. Dispense 5 drops of the following solutions: magnesium nitrate (0,1 M) into well A[1]. calcium
nitrate (0,1 M) into well A[2], strontium nitrate (0,1 M.) into well A[3] and barium nitrate (0,1 M)
into well A[4].
3. Dispense 5 drops of sodium sulphate solution (0,1 M) into wells A[l] to A[4].
4. Observe what happens. Answer the following questions.

QUESTIONS:
Q1: Observe the heights of the precipitates formed in each well and record which well had the most
through to the least precipitate in Table 2 in the space provided.
Q2: Give the name and formula of the product that formed in each well. Record this in Table 2.
Table 1: Observations for Experiment B27
Most Second Third Least
precipitate most precipitate most precipitate precipitate

Well:

Product:

QUESTIONS (cont.):
Q3: What is the answer to the focus question?
A3:

EXTENSION QUESTION:
Q4: Formulate a general statement about the trend in the solubilities of the sulphates of Group 2
elements in relation to their atomic number.
A4:

20
EXPERIMENT B12: PRECIPITATION REACTIONS
Part 1: COLOURS OF PRECIPITATES
Focus Question 1: Are all the colours of precipitates the same?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Barium chloride solution, BaCl2(aq) [0,1 M]
6 x propettes Sodium sulphate solution, Na2SO4(aq) [0,1 M]
1 x microspatula Lead(II) nitrate solution Pb(NO3)2(aq) [0,1 M]
1 x piece of white paper Sodium iodide solution, NaI(aq) [0,1 M]
Silver nitrate solution, AgNO3(aq) [0,1M]
Potassium chromate solution, K2CrO4(aq) [0,1 M]
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Place the comboplate on a piece of white paper.
2. Use a clean propette to dispense 10 drops of barium chloride solution (0,1 M) into well F[1]. Use a
clean propettte to add 10 drops of sodium sulphate solution (0,1 M). Stir the mixture with a clean
microspatula and describe what you see happening in Table 2 below.
3. Use a clean propette to dispense 10 drops of lead(II) nitrate solution (0,1 M) into well F[2]. Use a
clean propettte to add 10 drops of sodium iodide solution (0,1 M). Stir the mixture with a clean
microspatula and describe what you see happening in Table 2 below.
4. Use a clean propette to dispense 10 drops of silver nitrate solution (0,1 M) into well F[3]. Use a
clean propettte to add 10 drops of potassium chromate solution (0,1 M). Stir the mixture with a
clean microspatula and describe what you see happening in Table 2 below.
5. Enter your observations into the following table.
Table 2: Observations for Experiment B12 Part 1
What you saw Proposed reaction Formula of
(colour of precipitate
precipitate)

Well F[1]:

Well F[2]:

Well F[3]:

QUESTIONS:
Q1: What is the answer to focus question 1?

A1:

21
Part 2: RATIO OF CATIONS TO ANIONS IN PRECIPITATES
Focus Question 2: Can the combining ratio of cation (X) reacting with anion (Y) be determined
experimentally?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Cation solution X [0,1 M]
2 x propettes Anion solution Y [0,1 M]
microspatulas
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Find the small wells marked A[l] to A[5] on the comboplate, then use one of the clean propettes
to add the number of drops of the 0.10 M cation solution (marked X) into each well as shown in
Table 2 below:

Well: A[1] A[2] A[3] A[4] A[5]

Number of drops of 0,1 M
cation X add: 10 8 6 4 2

2. Use a second, but clean, propette to add the number of drops of the 0.10 M anion solution (marked
Y) into the same wells (A[l] to A[5]), as shown in Table 3 below:

Well: A[1] A[2] A[3] A[4] A[5]

Number of drops of 0,1 M
anion Y add: 2 4 6 8 10

3. Now stir the mixtures in each well with a microspatula, wait about two minutes and see what
happens. Note that each well now contains a total of twelve drops of solution.

QUESTIONS:
Q1: Why were the quantities of product not the same in each of the wells A[1] to A[5]?

A1:
Q2: In which well was the quantity of product the greatest? Why was this the case?

A2:
Q3: What was the combining ratio of cation (X) to anion (Y) when this took place?

A3:
Q4: What is the answer to the focus question?

A4:

22
Part3: COMBINING RATIOS: CATIONS TO ANIONS IN PRECIPITATES
Focus Question 3: Does the combining ratio of the cation (X) (from part 2) change when reacted with a
different anion (Z)?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Cation solution X [0,1 M]
2 x propettes Anion solution Z [0,1 M]
microspatulas
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Find the small wells marked A[6] to A[10] on the comboplate, then use one of the clean propettes
to add the number of drops of the 0,10 M cation solution (marked "X") into each well as shown in
Table 2 below:

Well: A[6] A[7] A[8] A[9] A[10]

Number of drops of 0,1 M
10 8 6 4 2
cation X add:
2. Use a second, but clean, propette to add the number of drops of the 0,10 M anion solution (marked
Z) into the same wells (A[6] to A[10]), as shown in Table 3 below:

Well: A[6] A[7] A[8] A[9] A[10]

Number of drops of 0,1 M
anion Z add: 2 4 6 8 10

3. Now stir the mixtures in each well with a microspatula, wait about two minutes and see what
happens. Note that each well now contains a total of twelve drops of solution.
QUESTIONS:
Q1: Why were the quantities of product not the same in each of the wells A[6] to A[10]?

A1:
Q2: In which well was the quantity of product the greatest? Why was this the case?

A2:
Q3: What was the combining ratio of cation (X) to anion (Z) when this took place?

A3:
Q4: Was the combining ratio of cation (X) to anion (Z) the same as the combining ratio for cation (X)
with anion (Y)? Explain your answer.

A4:
Q5: What is the answer to the focus question?

A5:

CLEANING
Discard all the contents of the comboplate down the drain and clean the wells with tap water.
Thoroughly clean microspatulas and propettes.
Make sure all reagents bottles are sealed and that your bench top is clean.
Wash your hands before leaving the laboratory.

23
PRACTICAL 3 (B2): ACID / BASE TITRATION AN INTRODUCTION
(B18): PREPARATION OF AMMONIA

EXPERIMENT B2: ACID / BASE TITRATION AN INTRODUCTION

Focus Question 1: What volumes of sodium hydroxide solution are required to titrate equal volumes of
two different acids of the same concentration?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Acid A [0,10 M]
1 x microspatula Acid B [0,10 M]
5 x propettes Sodium hydroxide, NaOH(aq) [0,10 M]
Methyl orange indicator
Tap water

If acid or base is spilt on the skin, thoroughly rinse the affected area with water.

PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:

1. Add 5 drops of tap water into well A[1].
2. Add 1 drop of methyl orange indicator into well A[1].
Note the colour of the solution in well A[1].

3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 above in well A[2] using acid A instead of tapwater.
Note the colour of the solution in well A[2].

4. Add a sufficient number of drops of sodium hydroxide solution to well A[2] to just cause the colour
of the solution in well A[2] to be the same as that in well A[1].
Use the plastic microspatula to stir the solution between each drop of sodium hydroxide added.
Carefully count the number of drops of sodium hydroxide used, then enter the number into Table 1.

Table 1
Acid used No of drops No. of drops Average no.
of Acid A of NaOH of drops NaOH
5
A
5

Repeat the titration you did in well A[2] two more times in wells A[3] and A[4] as before.
Write down your observations in Table 1 as before.

24
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 above in wells A[5], A[6] and A[7], this time using acid B instead of
acid A.
Carefully count the number of drops of sodium hydroxide used, then enter the number into Table 2.

Table 2
Acid used No of drops No. of drops Average no.
of Acid A of NaOH of drops NaOH
5
B
5

QUESTIONS:
Q1: What is the answer to the focus question?

A1:

Q2: What is the volume ratio of NaOH / Acid A? (Hint: see Table 1)

A2:

Q3: What is the volume ratio of NaOH / Acid B? (Hint: see Table 2)

A3:

Q4: Compare your answers to Questions 2 and 3 above and then explain these results
A4:

EXTENSION QUESTIONS:
Definitions:
(i) Precision: When a person consistently measures a result in the same range, the result is said to be
precise. The result may or may not be the same as the known value. For example: when playing
darts, six bull's eyes obtained in one attempt is precise, since the darts are all in the same place.

(ii) Accuracy: When a person consistently measures a result close to the known or true value, the result is
said to be accurate. For example: if a dart player aims for the bull's eye and strikes the target six
times, the dart player has an accurate aim. The darts (the results) have all struck the value aimed at (the
true value).

25
Q5: Are the volumes of base you used, as seen in Tables 1 and 2, precise or accurate? (Explain your
answer and where applicable state if further information is needed to answer this question.)

A5:

Q6: If the average number of drops of base required to titrate 6 drops of acid A was experimentally
determined to be 8 and the true value should have been exactly 6, is the experimentally determined
result imprecise or inaccurate?

A6:

26
PRACTICAL 3: EXPERIMENT B18: PREPARATION OF AMMONIA
Focus Question 1: Is ammonia produced when a mixture of ammonium chloride, NH4Cl(s), and calcium
hydroxide, Ca(OH)2(s), is heated?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Ammonium chloride, NH4Cl(s)
1 x gas collecting tube Calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)2(s)
1 x propette Universal indicator paper
2 x microspatulas Hot water
1 x polystyrene cup filled with hot water Tap water

PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:

1. Take the lid off the gas collecting tube.
2. Using the spooned end of the microspatula add 5 spatulas of ammonium chloride into the gas
collecting tube.
3. Use a new microspatula to add 5 spatulas of calcium hydroxide into the same gas collecting tube.
4. Put the lid back onto the gas collecting tube and gently shake the contents to mix them.
5. Stand the gas collecting tube in a large well of the comboplate while you continue with steps 6 to 9.
6. Tear a strip of universal indicator paper into two pieces.
7. Dispense one drop of tap water onto the one piece of universal indicator paper, letting it dampen the
paper. What is the colour of the universal indicator paper?

What pH does this colour represent? (Hint: Check the pH colour indicator strip)

8. Take the lid off the gas collecting tube and carefully insert the dampened piece of universal indicator
paper into the gas collecting tube, so that it does not come into direct contact with the ammonium
chloride or calcium hydroxide.
Does the colour of the piece of universal change?

27
9. Wave your hand over the opening of the tube, smelling the contents of the tube.
What do you smell?

10. Put the lid back onto the gas collecting tube.
11. Put the sealed gas collecting tube and its contents into a beaker (polystyrene cup) filled with hot
water. Make sure that it is only 3/4 covered by the water to prevent water from entering into the gas
collecting tube. Hold it there for about 3-5 minutes.
12. Remove the gas collecting tube and stand it in a large well of the comboplate, as before.
13. Dispense one drop of the same tap water used before onto the second piece of universal indicator
paper, letting it dampen the paper as before.
What is the colour and hence the pH of the universal indicator paper before you put it into the gas
collecting tube?

14. Take the lid off the gas collecting tube, then wave your hand over the opening of the tube, smelling
the contents of the tube.
What do you smell? Is it the same smell that you smelt before?

15. Carefully insert the second indicator paper into the gas does not come into direct chloride or calcium
hydroxide dampened piece of universal collecting tube, so that it contact with the ammonium as before.
Does the colour of the piece of universal indicator change? What pH does this colour represent?
(Hint: check the pH colour indicator strip)

Is the substance produced in the gas collecting tube acidic or basic in character? Explain your
answer.

Give the name and formula of the substance formed in the gas collecting tube. What is the answer to
the focus question at the beginning of the experiment?

EXTENSION QUESTION:
16. Why was calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)2(s) used in the mixture with ammonium chloride, NH4Cl(s)?

CLEANING
Discard all the contents of the comboplate down the drain and clean the wells with tap water.
Thoroughly clean the microspatulas, propettes and gas collecting tube.
Make sure all reagents bottles are sealed and that your bench top is clean.
Wash your hands before leaving the laboratory.

28
PRACTICAL 4: (A16): REACTION OF A METAL WITH OXYGEN

EXPERIMENT A16: THE REACTION OF A METAL WITH OXYGEN

Focus Question 2: What product is formed when magnesium burns in oxygen?

REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Manganese(IV) oxide, MnO2(s)
1 x LID 1 Fresh hydrogen peroxide solution, H2O2(aq) [10%]
1 x LID 2 Magnesium powder, Mg(s)
1 x 2 ml syringe Universal Indicator solution
2 x silicone tubes (4 cm x 4 mm) Tap water
1 x propette
1 x glass tube (6 cm x 4 mm)
1 x microburner
1 x box matches

PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:

1. Use the spooned end of a plastic micro spatula to place one level spatula of manganese dioxide
powder into well F[l].
2. Fill of well F[6] with tap water using a propette.
3. Push LID 1 securely into well F[1]. Attach one of the silicone tubes to the tube connector on the lid
(see Fig. 1).
4. Push LID 2 securely into well F[6]. Make sure that the vent in the lid faces inwards. Attach the other
silicone tube to the tube connector on LID 2 (see Fig. 1).
5. Fill the syringe with l ml of the 10% hydrogen peroxide solution.

29
6. Fit the syringe into the syringe inlet on LID 1 in well F[ 1].
7. Hold the glass tube in a horizontal position. Use the narrow end of a clean microspatula to place a
small quantity of magnesium powder in the centre of the glass tube
Describe the appearance of the magnesium powder.

8. Keep the glass tube in a horizontal position and attach one end of the glass tube to the silicone tube on
LID 1. Connect the other end of the glass tube to the silicone tube on LID 2.
Do not move the glass tube from the horizontal position as some of the magnesium powder may fall
into well F[1] and the experiment will have to be restarted.
9. Light the micro burner and place it on one side.
10. Slowly add about 0,4 ml of the 10% H2O2(aq) from the syringe into well F[1]. Wait for a steady
stream of bubbles to appear in the water in well F[6]. Now begin heating the magnesium powder in the
glass tube with the micro burner.
Keep the flame of the microburner directly beneath the magnesium in the tube. Do not move the
microburner from side to side.
11. When the bubbles stop flowing in well F[6], add the rest of the H2O2(aq) very slowly to well F[l]
while continuing to heat the magnesium. Observe what happens in the glass tube while heating.
What did you observe in the glass tube while heating the magnesium in oxygen?

12. After the magnesium has changed in appearance, blow out the micro burner flame.
13. If you see water being sucked back from well F[6] into the glass tube, disconnect LID 2 from well
F[6]. What do you see inside the glass tube after burning? (Note: it is usual for a black residue to form
at the bottom of the glass tube where the microburner was held, but this is not part of the product.)

14. When the glass tube has cooled, remove it from the set-up. Tap the tube gently in well E[3] to dislodge
as much of the solid product in the tube as possible.
15. Add 10 drops of water to well E[3] and stir the solid vigorously in the water.
16. Use a clean propette to add one drop of universal indicator solution to well E[3].
What is the colour of the universal indicator solution in well E[3]?

17. Leave the comboplate to stand for about 5 7 minutes. Observe the colour of the indicator in well
E[3] after this time.
What is the colour of the indicator solution in well E[3] after about 5 minutes?

Is the solution of the product acidic or basic?

30
QUESTIONS:
Q1: What is the answer to the focus question?

A1:

Q2: Why did the indicator in well E[3] change colour?

A2:

EXTENSION QUESTIONS:
Q3: Write a word equation for the combustion of magnesium in oxygen.

A3:

Q4: Write a balanced chemical equation for the combustion of magnesium in oxygen.

A4:

CLEANING
Discard all the contents of the VIALS down the drain and clean with tap water.
Make sure all reagents bottles are sealed and that your bench top is clean.
Wash your hands before leaving the laboratory.

31
PRACTICAL 4 (B17): REACTIONS OF METALS WITH METAL SOLUTIONS

EXPERIMENT B17: REACTIONS OF METALS WITH METAL SOLUTIONS

Focus Question 1: How do different metals compare in their tendency to react with aqueous solutions of
metal salts?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Copper powder, Cu(s)
3 x propettes Iron filings, Fe(s)
3 x microspatulas Zinc powder, Zn(s)
Copper(II) sulphate solution, CuSO4(aq) [1 M]
Iron(II) sulphate solution, FeSO4(aq) [1 M]
Zinc sulphate solution, ZnSO4(aq) [1 M]

PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:

1. Dispense 10 drops of aqueous copper sulphate solution into each of wells A[1] to A[3] with a propette.
2. Use the spooned end of a plastic microspatula to add 1 level microspatula of each of the metals
indicated as follows:
copper powder into well A[1],
iron filings into well A[2],
zinc powder into well A[3].
Use a clean microspatula for each metal.
When adding the metals to the small wells, make sure that you do not spill any
powder into adjacent wells as this will cause confusion.
3. Stir the contents of each well with the thin end of the microspatula where necessary.
4. Observe what happens in each well. Wait for 2-3 minutes to confirm your observations. View the
comboplate from above and from the side when making your observations. If no change is detected,
indicate this with a cross in the corresponding block in Table 1. If a change is observed, describe what
you see in the space provided in Table 1.
5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 above using wells A[5] to A[7], this time using the iron(II) sulphate solution.
6. Repeat steps 1 to 4 above using wells A[9] to A[11], this time using the zinc sulphate solution.

32
TABLE 1
CuSO4(aq) FeSO4(aq) ZnSO4(aq)

Cu(s)

Fe(s)

Zn(s)

QUESTIONS:
Q1: Of the three metals investigated above, which metal showed the greatest tendency to react with the
aqueous solutions of metal salts? (see Table 1) Give a reason for your answer.

A1:

Q2: Which metal showed the least tendency to react with the aqueous solutions of metal salts? (see Table).
Give a reason for your answer.

A2:

Q3: Answer the focus question by reporting a reactivity series for the metals, from the most reactive to the
least reactive.

A3:

33
EXTENSION EXPERIMENT:
Focus Question 2: How does magnesium metal compare with the other three metals studied before in its
tendency to react with aqueous solutions of metal salts?

REQUIREMENTS:

APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Copper powder, Cu(s)
4 x propettes Iron filings, Fe(s)
1 x microspatulas Zinc powder, Zn(s)
Magnesium powder, Mg(s)
Copper(II) sulphate solution, CuSO4(aq) [1 M]
Iron(II) sulphate solution, FeSO4(aq) [1 M]
Zinc sulphate solution, ZnSO4(aq) [1 M]
Magnesium sulphate solution, MgSO4(aq) [1 M]
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Use a clean propette to place 10 drops of CuSO4(aq) into well A[1].
2. Use another propette to place 10 drops of FeSO4(aq) into well A[2].
3. Use another propette to place 10 drops of ZnSO4(aq) into well A[[3].
4. Use a fourth propette to place 10 drops of MgS04(aq) into each of wells A[5], A[6], A[7] and A[8].
5. Add one microspatula of magnesium powder to the aqueous metal solutions in wells A[ 1 ],A[2] and
A[3] using the narrow end of the microspatula.
6. Observe what happens in each well. Wait for 2-3 minutes to confirm your observations. View the
comboplate from above and from the side when making your observations. If no change is detected,
indicate this with a cross in the corresponding block in Table 2. If a change is observed, describe what
you see in the space provided in Table 2.

TABLE 2
CuSO4(aq) FeSO4(aq) ZnSO4(aq)

Mg(s)

8. Use the spooned end of a plastic microspatula to add 1 level microspatula of each of the metals
indicated below as follows:
copper powder into well A[5],
iron filings into well A[ 6],
zinc powder into wellA[7].
Use a clean microspatulafor each metal.
8. Use the narrow end of another microspatula to add one microspatula of magnesium powder to well
A[8].
9. Observe what happens in each well. Record your observations as before in the space provided in
Table 3.

34
TABLE 3
MgSO4(aq)

Cu(s)

Fe(s)

Zn(s)

Mg(s)

QUESTIONS:
Q1: Use your observations in Table 2 to explain what happened between magnesium and the copper(II)
sulphate solution.

A1:

Q2: Use your observations in Table 2 to explain what happened between magnesium and the iron(II)
sulphate solution.

A2:
Q3: Use your observations in Table 2 to explain what happened between magnesium and the zinc sulphate
solution.

A3:

Q4: What difference is there between the reaction of magnesium powder with metal salt solutions and the
reaction of the other metals with the same metal salt solutions?

A4:

Q5: Did you expect magnesium to react with the magnesium sulphate solution? Explain your answer.
Hint: Recall your observations in Table l when adding the other metals to their own metal salt
solutions.
A5:

35
Q6: If magnesium does not react with magnesium sulphate solution, suggest what reaction was observed
when the magnesium powder was added to the magnesium sulphate solution.
Hint: A 1M MgSO4(aq) solution is dilute i.e. it consists mainly of water.

A6:

Q7: Answer the focus question by extending the metal reactivity series (in Question 3 of the main
experiment) to include magnesium.

A7:

EXTENSION QUESTIONS:
Q8: Use your answer to question 6 above to explain why bubbling was observed when magnesium was
added to the CuSO4(aq), FeSO4(aq) and ZnSO4(aq) solutions.

A8:

Q9: When solid magnesium is added to an aqueous solution of zinc sulphate the following equation
represents the reaction which takes place:
Mg(s) + Zn2+(aq) Mg2+(aq) + Zn(s)
Write a balanced chemical equation to represent the reaction which occurs when solid iron filings are
added to an aqueous solution of copper sulphate.

A9:

36
PRACTICAL 5: EXPERIMENT (B1): CHEMICAL EQUILIBRIUM LE
CHTELIERS PRINCIPLE
PART 1 The difference between concentration and amount
Focus Question 1: What is the difference between concentration and amount of substance in solution?
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Copper(II) nitrate, Cu(NO3)2 .3H2O(s)
1 x propettes *Tap water
1 x 2ml syringe

The item marked with an asterisk(*) is not supplied in the kit. If the copper nitrate has become
hard, the contents of the bottle must be carefully crushed with a sharp object such as spatula.

Syringes and propettes must not be used to squirt liquids at anybody. Such behaviour is extremely
dangerous when doing practical chemistry. One reason is that the liquid may be corrosive or
poisonous, even if it is colourless and looks like water.
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Use the spooned end of the plastic microspatula to place two level spatulas of solid copper nitrate into
well F[1], four level spatulas of copper nitrate into well F[2], four level spatulas of copper nitrate into
well F[3].
2. Using the syringe, add 1 ml of water into well F[l], 1 ml of water into well F[2] and 2 ml of water into
well F[3].
3. Stir the solutions thoroughly with the tip of the spatula until all the solid Cu(NO3)23H2O is dissolved.
QUESTIONS:
Q1: Which well, comparing wells F[l] and F[2], has the greater concentration of Cu 2+(aq) ions? (Lift the
comboplate to the light and observe the colour of the solutions in wells F[1] and F[2] from the
side.) HINT: What is the definition of concentration?

A1:

Give reasons for your answer.

Q2: Which well, comparing wells F[1] and F[3], has the greater concentration of Cu 2+(aq) ions? (Lift the
comboplate to the light and view from the side as before.)

A2:

37
 Give reasons for your answer.

Q3: Which well, comparing wells F[l] and F[2], has the greater amount of Cu2+(aq) ions?
HINT: What is the definition of amount?

A3:

Give reasons for your answer.

Q4: What is the answer to focus question 1?

A4:

Rinse the wells with tap water and then shake them dry.
END OF EXPERIMENT Bl: PART 1

38
EXPERIMENT B1: PART 2:
Focus Question 2: What is the effect of the concentration of the reactants on the following chemical
equilibrium:
Cu(H2O)42+(aq) + 4Cl(aq) CuCl42(aq) + H2O(l)
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Copper(II) nitrate solution, Cu(NO3)2(aq) [0,5M]
1 x microspatula Hydrochloric acid, HCl (aq) [11M]
2 x propettes *Tap water

The item marked with an asterisk(*) is not supplied in the kit.

If any acid is spilt on the skin, thoroughly wash the affected area with water.
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Use a clean propette to add 5 drops of 0,5 M Cu(NO3)2(aq) into each of wells A[1] and A[2]. *Well
A[l] is the standard for comparison. For every drop of water, or HCl, placed in well A[2], one drop of
water should be added to well A[1]. This is for comparison of the dilution effect.
2. What is the colour of the solution in each well?

Which ion in solution is responsible for this colour? (Refer to the previous equation.)

3. Using the second propette, add 3 drops of 11 M HCl into well A[2]. Stir the solution with the narrow
end of a plastic microspatula. (Remember*). Describe the colour change.

Which ion in solution is responsible for the new colour? (Refer to the previous equation.)

4. Add 8 drops of water to well A[2]. Stir the solution with the narrow end of a plastic micro spatula.
(Remember*). (Add a further drop of water if the colour change is not complete). Note the colour change
in well A[2].

QUESTIONS:
Q1: Propose a reason why adding HCl to the solution containing Cu(NO3)2 3H2O, turns it yellow/pale
green.

A1:

39
Q2: Write down colour indications for the species in the chemical equation. Hint: water is colourless
Cu(H2O)42+(aq) + 4Cl(aq) CuCl 42 (aq) + H2O(l)

A2:
Q3: You are given the following list of reagents:
nitric acid (HNO3) sodium
chloride (NaCl) sodium
hydroxide (NaOH)
Which would you choose to add to a blue copper nitrate solution to cause it to turn yellow/pale green?

A3:

Q4: Give the reason for your answer in Question 3.

A4:

Q5: What is your answer to focus question 2?

A5:

KEEP THE CONTENTS OF WELLS A[1] AND A[2] FOR PART 3.

EXPERIMENT B1:
EXTENSION EXPERIMENT:
1. Place 5 drops of 0,5 M copper nitrate solution into well A[3].
2. Add 2 drops of 11 M HCI into well A[3].
Note the colour of the solution at the moment that the drop of 11 M HCI is added.

3. Stir the solution with a clean spatula, wait for a few seconds.
Note the colour of the solution in well A[3] after a few seconds.

40
Q6: Can you explain what you have observed?
A6:

END OF EXPERIMENT Bl: PART2

EXPERIMENT B1:
PART 3:

Focus Question 3: What is the effect of temperature on the following chemical equilibrium:
Cu(H2O)42+(aq) + 4Cl(aq) CuCl42(aq) + H2O(l)
REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate The solutions in wells A[1] and A[2]
1 x glass rod *Ice cold water
1 x microburner
1 x box of matches
The item marked with an asterisk(*) is not supplied in the kit.
1. Methylated spirits is poisonous. Do not inhale the vapour or drink the liquid.
2. Be careful not to burn your fingers with the hot glass rod.
3. Do not touch the surface of the comboplate with the hot glass rod. It will melt the plastic.
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Pass the glass rod through the flame of the microbumer three or four times. Put the rod into well A[2].
(If the rod is too hot, the solution boils). Move the rod around in the well to distribute the heat uniformly.
Describe the colour change in well A[2]. (If the colour change is not convincing, wipe the rod and repeat
step 1.)

Which ion in solution is responsible for the new colour? (Refer to the chemical equation)

2. Remove the rod, dry it and place it into the container containing ice or cold water (*NOTE: ice works
better than cold water). Wait about 1 minute until the rod is cold and insert it into well A[2]. The
colour should change after another 1 minute.
Describe the colour change in well A[2]. (If the colour change is not convincing, repeat step 2.)

Which ion in solution is responsible for the new colour? (Refer to the chemical equation.)

41
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2, this time placing the hot and then cold rod into well A[1]. Do you observe the
same colour changes as for well A[2]?

QUESTIONS:
2+ 2
Q1: Having noted the colour changes in well A[2], which species, Cu(H2O)4 (aq) or CuCl4 (aq) would
you say is preferred under the following conditions:
(i) Hot solution?

A1:

(ii) Cold solution?

Q2: Using the given chemical equation, explain why the colour changes when the temperature of the
solution in well A[2] is:
(i) increased

A2:

(ii) decreased?

Q3: What is your answer to focus question 3?

A3:

EXTENSION EXPERIMENT:
STATEMENT: A student says that the temperature affects the colour of all coloured solutions.
QUESTIONS:
Q1: Do you think the student is correct in his view?

A1:

33
Q2: If not, how could you prove that the temperature only changes the colour of a solution when it
changes the concentration of one or more of the coloured species in the solution? Suggest an
experimental setup.

A2:

END OF EXPERIMENT B1: PART 3

END OF EXPERIMENT B1

CLEANING
Discard all the contents of the VIALS down the drain and clean with tap water.
Make sure all reagents bottles are sealed and that your bench top is clean.
Wash your hands before leaving the laboratory.

34
PRACTICAL 6: (B25): THE COMMON ION EFFECT
Part 1 Investigation into the common ion effect
Focus Question 2: What is a common ion?

REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Hydrochloric acid HCl(aq) [11 M]
4 x propettes Nitric acid, HNO3(aq), [12 M]
1 x microspatula Sodium chloride solution, NaCl(aq) [saturated]
THEORY
A saturated solution is an equilibrium mixture where undissolved solid is in equilibrium with dissolved solid.
The solid can be an electrolyte such as sodium dichromate or a non-electrolyte like sugar. When a salt
dissolves in water to form a solution, aqueous ions are formed. If another salt is dissolved in water and it has
either the same cation or the same anion, then that ion is known as the common ion. For example, solutions
of sodium dichromate and potassium dichromate both contain the dichromate ion so dichromate is the
common ion.
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
1. Use a clean propette to dispense 10 drops of saturated sodium chloride solution into wells A[1] and
A[2].
2. Use a second, clean propette to add 1 drop of ~ 12 M nitric acid (concentrated) into well A[1]. Describe
what happens.

3. Use a third propette to add 1 drop of 11 M hydrochloric acid (concentrated) into well A[2]. Describe
what happens.

QUESTIONS:
Q1: Do the solutions in well A[1] have ions in common with each other? If so state which one?

A1:
Q2: Do the solutions in well A[2] have ions in common with each other? If so state which one?

A2:

Q3: Name the and give the chemical formula for the product formed in well A[2].

A3:

Q4: Use the information given in the following equilibrium equation for a saturated sodium chloride
solution to explain what happened in well A[2].
NaCl(s) Na+(aq) + Cl(aq)

A4:

35
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS (cont.):
4. Use a fourth, clean propette to add 5 drops of tap water into well A[2]. Use the microspatula to stir the
contents of well A[2]. Describe what happened to the contents of well A[2].

QUESTIONS (cont.):
Q5: Use the equilibrium equation given in Q4 to explain what happened when water was added
above.
A5:
Q6: What is the answer to focus question 2?
A6:

Part 2 Investigation into the conditions under which the common ion effect takes place.

Focus Question 3: What conditions are necessary for the common ion effect to take place.

REQUIREMENTS:
APPARATUS CHEMICALS
1 x comboplate Hydrochloric acid HCl(aq) [1 M]
2 x propettes Sodium chloride solution, NaCl(aq) [saturated]
1 x microspatula
PROCEDURE AND OBSERVATIONS:
5. Use a clean propette to dispense 10 drops of saturated sodium chloride solution into well A[3].
6. Use a second propette to add 1 drop of 1 M hydrochloric acid (dilute) into well A[3]. Describe what
happens.

QUESTIONS:
Q7: Was your observation the same as when the 11 M hydrochloric acid was added? Explain
why this was so.

A7:

Q8: What is the answer to focus question 3?

A8:

CLEANING
Discard all the contents of the comboplate down the drain and clean the wells with tap water.
Thoroughly clean the propettes.
Make sure all reagents bottles are sealed and that your bench top is clean.
Wash your hands before leaving the laboratory.

53
53