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Basic Tools of Analytical Chemistry

Buret Calibration and Standardization of NaOH Solution

Students learn to: Use basic output from an analytical tool (buret) to calibrate that tool. Use data to perform error analysis (identify the presence of random and/or systematic errors). Standardize a sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution using titration of potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHP) using a calibrated buret. Report the determined concentration of the standardized NaOH solution. Communicate…

Concentration and Dilution

After completing this activity, students will be able to: Convert between different types of concentration units. Calculate the final concentration of a solution following dilution(s). Determine the original amount of an analyte in a sample following quantitative sample preparation.

Use of Glassware

After completing this activity, students will be able to: Choose the appropriate piece of glassware to ensure the desired level of precision of a particular solution. Compare the tolerance of various pieces of glassware.

Dilutions and Volumetric Glassware

Students learn to: Determine volumes and concentrations in dilution calculations. Convert between different concentration units (e.g., ppm to M). Interpret a procedure for making a particular solution and assess the advantages of different dilution schemes. Choose the appropriate piece of glassware to ensure the desired level of precision of a particular solution. Compare the tolerance of…

Excel Workshop

Students learn to: Learn basic Excel functionality, including data entry, mathematical manipulations, built-in functions (AVERAGE, STDEV), importing data, etc. Use Excel to plot data (scatter plot) and format for scientific reports. Find the best-fit line for x-y data using least squares regression. This will be accomplished using two different methods in Excel: Add trendline to scatter…

Excel Tutorial 

Students learn to: Use Excel to create a basic spreadsheet. Translate mathematical equations into Excel functions. Provide Spreadsheet Documentation for your work. Use the extra features of Excel to communicate your results clearly.