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.
Tag: IBDP
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.
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
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
What is Osmosis?
Osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a partially permeable membrane from a region of higher water potential to a region of lower water potential. Water potential is a measure of the tendency of water to move from one place to another. A partially permeable membrane is a membrane that allows some substances to … Continue reading What is Osmosis?
Reactivity Series – Reactions of Metals and Acids
Introduction The reactivity of metals with acids is an important topic in chemistry. In this investigation, we aim to determine the order of reactivity of metals with dilute hydrochloric acid. Dilute hydrochloric acid is an acidic solution that reacts with metals to form metal chlorides and hydrogen gas. The reaction rate of this reaction can … Continue reading Reactivity Series – Reactions of Metals and Acids





