Last Class (October 27, 2009),we performed an experiment involving iron, copper and chlorine.
We were given two iron nails, 8g of copper (II) chloride and distilled water for the first part of the experiment. For the last part, we had to use distilled water and hydrochloric acid to decant the solutions.
We also used a beaker, a graduated cylinder, a stirring rod, crucible tongs, watch glass, squirt bottle and the drying oven for this experiment. Here are the steps that we followed:
We were given two iron nails, 8g of copper (II) chloride and distilled water for the first part of the experiment. For the last part, we had to use distilled water and hydrochloric acid to decant the solutions.
We also used a beaker, a graduated cylinder, a stirring rod, crucible tongs, watch glass, squirt bottle and the drying oven for this experiment. Here are the steps that we followed:
- We first measured the mass of the dry empty beaker.
- Then we made a solution using the copper (II) chloride samples and distilled water. (water turned into an aqua blue color)
- Then, we measured the mass of two clean iron nails. Then we placed it into the solution. We left it undisturbed for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, the aqua blue color of the solution turned to a green-ish solution- that's because copper formed as iron reacted to the solution.
- We took out the two iron nails using crucible tongs, and scraped the excess copper that sticked to the nails. Then, we placed the nails onto a watch glass and placed it in the drying oven for about 10 minutes to dry.
- As we waited for the nails to dry, we decanted the copper (II) chloride solution with distilled water and hydrochloric acid. (To Decant is to separate the solid particles in a solution from the liquid.)
- After that, we took out the nails and placed the copper particles in the drying oven. We measured the remaining mass of the iron nails- and figured out that almost 1 g of iron was used up by the solution, which in return became copper.
- Then, we took the copper out from the drying oven and measured the mass.
- We recorded all our data and finished the questions for the lab.
- Lastly, we cleaned all our materials to make sure that the lab is safe to use for the next class.
In conclusion, in this experiment we saw the ratio of how much of the iron has been used to produce copper. This experiment had to follow a lot of steps yet it was really easy to follow. As long as you follow the right procedure, use the right materials- then you will surely end up with the right results. I hope our group did.
Oh Btw, whenever you are dealing with Copper (II) Chloride or any other kinds of compounds, acids or bases in the lab, you should always take extra precautions for these compounds may cause serious damage to your body- such as kidney failure, respiratory system failure. When in contact with your skin, it may burn you. That is why, it is very important to wear safety goggles and lab apron whenever conducting an experiment. It is also very important to wash your hands before and after doing an experiment.
You can never tell when an accident will happen, that is why we should always be prepared and safe at all times. :)
Oh Btw, whenever you are dealing with Copper (II) Chloride or any other kinds of compounds, acids or bases in the lab, you should always take extra precautions for these compounds may cause serious damage to your body- such as kidney failure, respiratory system failure. When in contact with your skin, it may burn you. That is why, it is very important to wear safety goggles and lab apron whenever conducting an experiment. It is also very important to wash your hands before and after doing an experiment.
You can never tell when an accident will happen, that is why we should always be prepared and safe at all times. :)
Here is an additional link for more information about Copper (II) Chloride. CLICK HERE.