Author: marccurran

Determining Water of Crystallization in Copper(II) Sulfate

Determining Water of Crystallization in Copper(II) Sulfate

Classic IBDP, A-level and GCSE practical. Determine the number of moles of water of crystallisation in hydrated copper(II) sulfate by heating it to constant mass.

Acid-Base Properties of Period 3 Oxides Explained

Acid-Base Properties of Period 3 Oxides Explained

Acid-Base Properties of Period 3 Oxides This investigation explores how the acid-base character of oxides formed by Period 3 elements evolves across the period—from sodium to sulfur. As predicted by periodic trends, the chemical behavior of these oxides in water reflects a transition from basic to acidic properties. The hypothesis proposes that sodium and magnesium oxides will yield alkaline solutions, aluminum oxide will exhibit amphoteric behavior, and the oxides of silicon, phosphorus, and sulfur will produce acidic solutions. This progression is attributed to increasing electronegativity and a shift from ionic to covalent bonding across the period. To test this, each oxide was reacted with water and, where insoluble, with both acid and base to assess amphoteric or acidic behavior. pH measurements and qualitative observations were recorded to determine the nature of each oxide. The experiment was carefully controlled for mass, volume, and temperature, with safety precautions in place due to the reactive and corrosive nature of certain oxides. The results are expected to reinforce the hypothesis and illustrate the link between atomic structure, bonding type, and acid-base behavior—highlighting the predictive power of periodicity in chemical properties.

Understanding Aluminium’s Amphoteric Nature Through Experiments

Understanding Aluminium’s Amphoteric Nature Through Experiments

Introduction Whilst aluminium is mostly a metal, and displays many of the properties you would expect of a metal, it also has some non-metallic character. In this experiment you will look more closely at these properties by converting some scrap aluminium from a drinks can into aluminium sulphate (a.k.a. alum) in a process similar to … Continue reading Understanding Aluminium’s Amphoteric Nature Through Experiments

Mastering Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) Techniques

Mastering Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) Techniques

Thin layer chromatography (TLC) harnesses capillary action and differential solubility to separate mixtures on a silica-coated plate. In this exercise, students extract colorful pigments from fresh flower petals using ethanol and then resolve individual dye components as they travel up the plate. Visualization under ambient light or UV illumination reveals the hidden complexity of plant biochemistry, while calculating retention factors (R_f) quantifies each pigment’s mobility. A 300 mL mobile phase of 1-butanol : acetic acid : water (4 : 1 : 1) is prepared by measuring and mixing 200 mL of 1-butanol, 50 mL of glacial acetic acid, and 50 mL of deionized water. Coffee-filter “flowers” or standard TLC plates are spotted with concentrated petal extracts, then developed in a shallow chamber until the solvent front reaches within 1 cm of the top. After air-drying, the separated bands fan out like petals, turning each filter into a vivid chromatography flower. This hands-on method not only reinforces core TLC concepts—stationary vs. mobile phases, solvent polarity tuning, and R_f calculation—but also invites comparisons across flower species, solvent systems, and extraction techniques. It’s an engaging way to link analytical chemistry with the natural world.

Step-by-Step Guide to Science Essay Success

Step-by-Step Guide to Science Essay Success

Answering a science essay question requires a clear approach to cover all parts of the question, show your understanding, and present a strong argument. Here are the best steps to follow: 1. Deconstruct the Question (The Most Crucial Step): Read Carefully and Multiple Times: Don't just skim. Read the question at least two or three … Continue reading Step-by-Step Guide to Science Essay Success

Observing the Transition of Water through Different States in a Lab

Observing the Transition of Water through Different States in a Lab

States of Matter To observe and understand the changes in states of matter (solid, liquid, gas) by heating and cooling water in a controlled lab environment. Materials Needed: Beakers Water Bunsen burners Tripod stands Wire gauze Ice cubes Thermometers Tongs Safety goggles Lab gloves Procedure: Observing Melting (Solid to Liquid): Place a few ice cubes … Continue reading Observing the Transition of Water through Different States in a Lab