1st Year Undergraduate Experiments in Physical Chemistry
X.1 An Introduction to Solution Chemistry Techniques
One of the commonest tasks in chemistry is the quantitative analysis of a sample. Many different analytical methods exist, from instrumental methods such as atomic absorption spectroscopy or uv/visible absorption, to titration methods relying on the colour change of an indicator, or measurements of the conductivity or pH of a solution. In this experiment you will use different methods to determine the concentration of calcium, nickel and fluoride ion in samples of unknown composition, and be asked to assess the relative value of each method.
During the course of this two-day experiment you will:
Read the instructions for each step carefully before starting. Brief appendices contain useful general information, and you should read these also. This preparation will help you to complete the experiment successfully; you will gain a better understanding if you know what you have to do before you start working. The write-up for this experiment consists of the worksheets fully completed, including calculations, plots, spectra and comments.
Work safely! If any operation seems unclear, ask a demonstrator or technician for advice.
Instructions for this experiment are provided in the 1st year Laboratory Manual. You may also download the instructions.
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Updated August 1, 2006.