Green Chemistry Analysis of a Mixture

Product Details

In this lab activity, students design and carry out a green chemistry experiment that can quantitatively measure the weight percent of one compound in a mixture of two compounds.

The investigation begins with an introductory activity to verify the decomposition reaction of a solid bicarbonate, either potassium or sodium bicarbonate. Students review the principles of green chemistry and evaluate a high school stoichiometry lab procedure in terms of prevention, atom economy and use and production of nontoxic materials.

Once the introductory activity is completed, students design and carry out an experiment to quantitatively measure the weight percent of solid mixtures containing either sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate or potassium carbonate and potassium bicarbonate. Students assess their procedures in terms of the green chemistry principles.

Complete for 24 students working in pairs.

2024 CED Alignment:  

Unit 4 - Chemical Reactions 

 Topic 4.4 - Physical and Chemical Changes 

Description of the Lab  

Students apply quantitative principles to measure the weight percent pf one compound in a mixture of two compounds. Emphasis is placed on sustainable techniques, atom economy, and analysis of procedure effectiveness.  

Learning Objective 

• LO 4.1.A Identify evidence of chemical and physical changes in matter. 

• LO 4.4.A – Explain the relationship between macroscopic characteristics and bond interactions for: 
  i. Chemical processes. 
  ii. Physical processes. 

Skills Students Will Learn 

• 2.E – Identify or describe potential sources of experimental error. 
  In this lab: Students reflect on procedural limitations, loss of material, and yield accuracy.