Chapter 2 Experiment

Microscale Chemistry
Experiments:
Adaptation to
Malaysian National
Curriculum
School of Chemical Sciences

Universiti Sains Malaysia
Penang, Malaysia
Prepared under UNESCO Contract No: 4500049693

CONTENTS
Foreword 6
Preface 8
List of apparatus 9
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION TO CHEMISTRY
SCIENTIFIC METHOD
A. Investigating the effect of the temperature of water on the solubility of sugar 10
CHAPTER 2
THE STRUCTURE OF THE ATOM
A. DIFFUSION OF PARTICLES IN SOLIDS, LIQUIDS AND GASES

I. Diffusion of gases 12
II. Diffusion of liquids ** 13
III. Diffusion of solids 13
CHAPTER 3
CHEMICAL FORMULAE AND EQUATIONS
A. DETERMINING THE EMPIRICAL FORMULA OF COPPER(II) 15

OXIDE **
B. CONSTRUCTING BALANCED CHEMICAL EQUATIONS

I. Heating of copper(II) carbonate ** 18
II. Formation of ammonium chloride 19
III. Precipitation of lead(II) iodide 19
CHAPTER 4
PERIODIC TABLE OF ELEMENTS
A. INVESTIGATING THE CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP 17

ELEMENTS
I. Reactions of halogens with water 21
a) Chlorine with water **
b) Bromine with water **
c) Iodine with water
2
II. Reactions of halogen with iron 23
a) Chlorine with iron **
b) Bromine with iron **
c) Iodine with iron **
III. Reactions of halogens with sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution 25
a) Chlorine with sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution
b) Bromine with sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution.
c) Iodine with sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution
B. STUDYING THE PROPERTIES OF OXIDES OF THE ELEMENTS IN

PERIOD 3
I. Reaction of oxides of Period 3 elements with water 29
II. Reaction of oxides of Period 3 elements with 2 M nitric acid and 30
2 M sodium hydroxide solutions
CHAPTER 5
CHEMICAL BONDS
A. PREPARATION OF IONIC COMPOUNDS

I. Preparation of magnesium oxide 32
II. Preparation of iron(III) chloride ** 33
B. COMPARING THE PROPERTIES OF IONIC AND COVALENT COMPOUNDS

I. Melting point and boiling point 35
II. Solubility in water and organic solvents 36
III.Electrical conductivity 37
CHAPTER 6
ELECTROCHEMISTRY
A.CLASSIFYING CHEMICALS INTO ELECTROLYTES AND

NON-ELECTROLYTES
I. Molten substances 39
II. Aqueous solutions 40
B. ELECTROLYSIS OF MOLTEN COMPOUNDS 42
C. INVESTIGATING THE ELECTROLYSIS OF AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS

I. Electrolysis of sodium hydroxide solution ** 44
II. Electrolysis of copper(II) sulphate solution 45
D. PURIFICATION OF COPPER 47
3
E. ELECTROPLATING AN OBJECT WITH COPPER 49
F.PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY FROM CHEMICAL 51

REACTIONS IN A SIMPLE VOLTAIC CELL
G.PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY FROM CHEMICAL REACTIONS 53

IN A DANIEL CELL
H. CONSTRUCTING THE ELECTROCHEMICAL SERIES 55

USING THE PRINCIPLE OF DISPLACEMENT OF METALS
CHAPTER 7
ACID AND BASES
A. INVESTIGATING THE ROLE OF WATER IN SHOWING 57

THE PROPERTIES OF ACIDS
B. STUDYING THE CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF ACIDS

I. Reactions of acids with bases 59
II. Reactions of acids with metals 61
III.Reactions of acids with metal carbonates 62
C. STUDYING THE CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF BASES

I. Reactions of bases with acids 64
II. Reactions of bases with ammonium salts 65
III.Reactions of bases with metal ions 65
D. MEASURING THE pH OF SOLUTIONS USED IN DAILY LIFE ** 67
E. DETERMINING THE END POINT OF THE TITRATION BETWEEN 69

HYDROCHLORIC ACID, HCl AND SODIUM HYDROXIDE, NaOH
SOLUTION USING AN ACID-BASE INDICATOR **
CHAPTER 8
SALTS
A. SOLUBILITY OF NITRATE, SULPHATE, CARBONATE AND 73

CHLORIDE SALTS
B. PREPARATION OF SOLUBLE SALTS BY MIXING ACIDS WITH BASES

I. To determine the volume of acid for neutralization 75
II. Preparation of the salt 76
III.Recrystallisation of the salt. 76
4
C.PREPARATION OF SOLUBLE SALTS BY MIXING AN ACID 78
WITH AN INSOLUBLE METAL OXIDE
D. PREPARATION OF INSOLUBLE SALTS BY CARRYING OUT A

PRECIPITATION REACTION
I. Preparation of lead(II) iodide 80
II. Preparation of lead(II) chromate(VI) 80
III.Preparation of barium sulphate 81
E.CONSTRUCTING THE IONIC EQUATION FOR THE 82

FORMATION OF LEAD(II) CHROMATE(VI)
F. CARRYING OUT CHEMICAL TESTS TO IDENTIFY GASES

I. Test for oxygen gas, O2 84
II. Test for hydrogen gas, H2 85
III. Test for carbon dioxide gas, CO2 86
IV. Test for ammonia gas, NH3 86
V. Test for chlorine gas 87
VI. Test for hydrogen chloride gas, HCl 87
VII.Test for sulphur dioxide gas, SO2 88
VIII.Test for nitrogen dioxide gas, NO2 89
G. STUDYING THE EFFECT OF HEAT ON CARBONATE AND NITRATE SALTS

I. Carbonate salts ** 91
II. Nitrate salts 92
H. TESTING FOR THE PRESENCE OF ANIONS IN AQUEOUS SOLUTION

I. Test for carbonate ion, CO32- 95
II. Test for chloride ion, Cl- 96
2-
III.Test for sulphate ion, SO4 96
IV.Test for nitrate ion, NO3- 97
CHAPTER 9
MANUFACTURED SUBSTANCES IN INDUSTRY
A. PREPARATION OF AMMONIUM SULPHATE FERTILIZER

I. To determine the volume of acid for neutralization 99
II. Preparation of the salt 100
** Experiments from the UNESCO Advanced Teaching and Learning Packages on

Microchemistry Experiences which have been adapted to the Malaysian National
Curriculum (Form Four)
website
http://portal.unesco.org/science/en/ev.php-
URL_ID=6816&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html
5
FOREWORD
In Malaysia, Chemistry is offered to students at the upper secondary level beginning

in Form Four (equivalent to Grade 10). The chemistry curriculum is organised based
on the following themes: introduction to chemistry, matter around us, interactions
between chemicals and production and management of manufactured chemicals.
Central to the teaching-learning approach in the chemistry curriculum is practical work

which involves scientific investigations and hands-on activities. It also has the potential
to significantly enhance learning and development of conceptual understanding.
Microscale chemistry is an approach to performing chemistry experiments which

provides hands-on activities and personal experiences where students can do experiments
individually. It is conducted by using reduced amounts of chemicals, miniature labware,
safe, easy manipulative techniques and high quality skills. Using this approach,
experiments in this manual have been developed at the School of Chemical Sciences,
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) according to the chemistry syllabus for the Malaysian
Form Four Integrated Curriculum for Secondary Schools (KBSM).
I hope that with this manual of experiments, teachers will be encouraged to view
microscale chemistry experiments as a viable alternative to conducting practical work in
chemistry. In this respect, I would like to acknowledge the authors, Prof. Norita
Mohamed, Mrs Mashita Abdullah and Assoc. Prof. Zurida Hj Ismail for their dedication
in compiling this work.
USM, through its innovative effort is proud to collaborate with any party, UNESCO in
particular, in advancing further the use of microscale chemistry.
Prof. Tan Sri Dato’ Dzulkifli Abdul Razak

VICE-CHANCELLOR
UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA
11800 USM, PENANG
MALAYSIA
6
The Global Microscience Experiments Project, created by UNESCO in close cooperation
with various international and national organisations, is very well known throughout the
world. Many teaching and learning materials on Microscience experiments covering
Primary Sciences, Chemistry, Biology and Physics have been prepared and are available
free on the UNESCO website. However, the key point for the successful development of
the project in a national level is the preparation of adapted versions of the existing
materials to fit the national educational needs and curricula.
Malaysian specialists have prepared the adapted version of the chemistry materials using
part of UNESCO’s learning materials with great success: 39 new experiments were tested
using the advanced Microchemistry kits and 13 experiments were adapted from
UNESCO materials.
We hope that the present adapted version of the UNESCO learning materials in
microchemistry and especially the 39 new experiments could be examined by other
interested countries and could be used totally or partially in their own educational
programs.
We would like to congratulate warmly our Malaysian colleagues for the present
publication and the excellent result which can constitute an example of best practice
within the Global Microscience Experiments Project and a good model for use by other
countries in the world.
We believe that the Malaysian adaptation of Microchemistry Experiments contributes to

a new phase of the Global Microscience Experiments Project whereby such adaptations
become important components of the teaching and learning materials available to all.
Maria Liouliou
PROJECT COORDINATOR
UNESCO, NATURAL SCIENCES SECTOR
DIVISION OF BASIC AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES
Academician Alexandre Pokrovsky
DIRECTOR
MICROSCIENCE EXPERIMENTS PROGRAM OF
INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATION FOR CHEMICAL SCIENCES IN
DEVELOPMENT (IOCD)
7
PREFACE
This manual of experiments has been prepared as a students’ learning package for Form
Four (equivalent to Grade 10) secondary school students. The experiments have been
designed using the Advanced Microchemistry Kit (Somerset Educational South Africa)
and also glassware with a smaller volume.
It comprises nine chapters which include: introduction to chemistry, the structure of the
atom, chemical formulae and equations, periodic table of elements, chemical bonds,
electrochemistry, acids and bases, salts and manufactured substances in industry.
Thirteen experiments (marked with ** in the Table of Contents) in this manual have been
adapted from experiments in the ‘UNESCO Advanced Learning Package on
Microchemistry Experiences’ prepared by the RADMASTE UNESCO Associated Centre
of the University of Witwatersrand (South Africa) in cooperation with the Committee on
Teaching of Chemistry of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry
(IUPAC) and UNESCO. The rest of the experiments (39) have been developed
according to the Malaysian Form Four chemistry syllabus by replacing the traditional
apparatus with microscale chemistry apparatus. Our continuing work with microscale
chemistry experimentation with teachers and students through workshops held and school
trials, have shown that with this approach, there is a reduction of up to 70 percent in
chemical wastes produced and chemical costs, and a saving of up to 75 percent in time
spent in conducting the experiments.
We hope that with these experiments, teachers will be able to experience themselves the
feasibility of conducting chemistry practical work with a microscale approach.
We would like to especially acknowledge the assistance of Academician Alexandre

Pokrovsky, Director of Microscience Experiments Programme IOCD and Prof. John D.
Bradley, Director of RADMASTE Centre. We are also grateful to Prof. Wan Ahmad
Kamil Mahmood, Dean of the School of Chemical Sciences for his support in the
development of microchemistry experiments at Universiti Sains Malaysia.
Prof. Norita Mohamed (mnorita@usm.my)

Mrs Mashita Abdullah (mashita92@yahoo.com)
SCHOOL OF CHEMICAL SCIENCES
Assoc. Prof. Zurida Hj Ismail (zurida@usm.my)

SCHOOL OF EDUCATIONAL STUDIES
UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA

11800 USM, PENANG
MALAYSIA
8
List of apparatus
Advanced Microchemistry Kit (Somerset Educational)
Big sample vial and lid

Comboplate
Combustion tube
Crossarms for microstand
Gas collecting tube
Glass fusion tube
Glass rod
LED
Lid 1
Lid 2
Microburner
Microburette
Microspatula
Microstand
Plasticine
Propette
Silicone tube
Small sample vial and lid
Straw electrodes
Syringe
Voltmeter
Wire connections
Other components
10 cm3 beaker
25 cm3 conical flask
10 cm3 measuring cylinder
Blue litmus paper
Battery 9V
Durham tubes
Filter funnel
Microcrucible
Microtripod stand
Pencil lead
Pipe-clay triangle
Small wire gauze
Test tube
Thermometer
Universal indicator paper
W-tube
Wire gauze
9
Chapter 1: Introduction to Chemistry
Scientific Method
A. Investigating the effect of the temperature of water on the solubility of sugar
Objective: To investigate the effect of the temperature of water on the solubility of

sugar
Apparatus: 10 cm3 measuring cylinder, 10 cm3 beakers, electronic balance, microburner,

microtripod stand, wire gauze, glass rod, thermometer.
Materials: Sugar and water.
Figure 1.1
Procedure:
1. Fill a measuring cylinder with 10 cm3 of water and pour it into a 10 cm3 beaker.
2. Record the temperature of the water with a thermometer.
3. Fill another 10 cm3 beaker with sugar. Weigh the beaker and its contents and
record the weight as a g.
4. Add the sugar a little at a time to the 10 cm3 of water in the beaker using a
microspatula.
5. Continue adding the sugar until no more sugar dissolves in the water.
6. Weigh the beaker with the sugar again and record the weight as b g.
7. The amount of sugar that dissolves in the water at room temperature is (b-a) g.
8. Repeat the experiment using water heated to different temperatures – 40 °C,
50 °C, 60 °C and 70 °C each time. Heat the water using a microburner (refer to
setting up of the microburner below).
9. Record the results in the following table.
10
Setting up the microburner:
Fill three quarters of the microburner vial with methylated spirit. Attach the
microburner lid (with glass tube and wick) to the vial and light the microburner.
Data and Observations:
Room
Temperature (°C) 40 50 60 70
temperature
Initial mass of beaker and
A b c d e
Its contents (g)
Final mass of beaker and its
B c d e f
contents (g)
Mass of sugar dissolved (g) (b-a) (c-b) (d-c) (e-d) (f-e)
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. State the hypothesis for the experiment.

2. State:
(i) the manipulated variable.
(ii) the responding variable.
(iii) the fixed(controlled) variables of the experiment.
3. Plot a graph of the mass of sugar dissolved against temperature.

(Both axes must be labeled with their units and the title of the graph must be
given).
4. From the graph, give a conclusion for the experiment.
References:
1. Low, S.N., Lim, Y.C., Eng, N.H., Lim, E.W. & Ahmad, U.K. (2005). Chemistry
practical book form 4, Integrated Curriculum for Secondary Schools, Abadi Ilmu Sdn.
Bhd: Petaling Jaya.
2. Loh, W.L. & Tan, O.T. (2006). Exploring Chemistry Form 4. Fajar Bakti Sdn. Bhd:
Shah Alam.
11
Chapter 2: The Structure of the Atom
A. Diffusion of particles in solids, liquids and gases
Objective: To investigate the diffusion of particles in a gas, a liquid and a solid.
Apparatus: Gas collecting tube, comboplate, small sample vial and lid, big sample vial
and lid, syringe, silicone tube, propette and plasticine.
Materials: Liquid bromine, Br2, 1 mol dm-3 potassium manganate(VII), KMnO4

solution, potassium manganate(VII), KMnO4 crystals, hot liquid gel, tap water.
Procedure:
I. Diffusion of gases
Figure 2.1
1. Put a gas collecting tube in well F1 of the comboplate in a vertical position using
plasticine at the bottom of the well.
2. Take the comboplate into the fume chamber.
3. Use a clean, dry propette to add 2-3 drops of bromine into the tube.
4. Close the tube immediately and record any observations for several minutes.
Watch Out! Liquid bromine, Br2 is toxic and corrosive. Wear gloves when
handling this substance. This activity must be carried out in a fume chamber.
12
II. Diffusion of liquids
Figure 2.2
1. Fill ¾ of a small sample vial with water.

2. Fill the syringe with 1 mol dm-3 of KMnO4 solution.
3. Attach the silicone tube to the nozzle of the syringe.
4. Carefully insert the silicone tube into the water in the vial until the open end
touches the bottom.
5. Press the plunger of the syringe slowly so that the KMnO4 solution flows down
the tube into the water at the bottom of the vial.
6. Carefully remove the tube and syringe.
7. Put a lid onto the vial and seal the hole in the lid with a piece of plasticine.
III. Diffusion of solids
Figure 2.3
13
1. Fill a big sample vial with the hot gel solution and leave it aside to solidify.
2. Put some crystals of KMnO4 on the lid of the vial and close the vial containing the
gel. Put the vial upside down as shown in Figure 2.3.
3. Leave the vial for one day and record any changes which have occurred.
Experiments Observations
II
III
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Why must the test tube in Section III be clamped upside down?
2. Based on your observations in Sections I, II and III, what can you conclude?
3. Based on your observations, arrange the rate of diffusion in a gas, a liquid and a
solid in ascending order. Explain your answer.
4. Based on your results, define diffusion.
5. In Section I, what will happen if you replace bromine, Br2 with a lighter gas such
as chlorine, Cl2?
6. What will you observe if you repeat the activity in Section II with boiling water?
References:
1. Low, S.N., Lim, Y.C., Eng, N.H., Lim, E.W. & Ahmad, U.K. & Tan, L. L. (2005).
Chemistry practical book form 4, Abadi Ilmu Sdn.Bhd: Petaling Jaya.
2. Bell, B. & Bradley, J.D. (2002). Advanced learning packages, Microchemistry

experiences, Magister-Press Publishing House: Moscow.
14
Chapter 3: Chemical Formulae and Equations
A. Determining the empirical formula of copper(II) oxide
Objective: To determine the empirical formula of copper(II) oxide
Apparatus: Comboplate, 2 cm3 syringes, glass tube (6 cm x 4 mm), lid 1, lid 2,

microspatula, propette, 2 silicone tubes (4 cm x 4 mm), microburner and
matches.
Materials: 2 mol dm-3 sulphuric acid, H2SO4, granulated zinc, Zn, 1 mol dm-3
copper(II) sulphate, CuSO4 solution, copper(II) oxide, CuO powder, and
methylated spirit.
Figure 3.1
Procedure:
1. Use a microspatula to add about 0.5 to 1 g of granulated zinc to well F1.

2. Fill two thirds of well F6 with tap water from a propette.
3. Seal well F1 with lid 1. Seal well F6 with lid 2 so that the vent hole faces
outwards.
4. Connect one end of a silicone tube to the tube connector on lid 1. Connect one
end of the other silicone tube to the tube connector on lid 2.
5. Weigh the glass tube and record the weight.
6. Hold the glass tube in a horizontal position. Use the narrow end of a clean
microspatula to place a small quantity of copper(II) oxide powder in the center
of the glass tube.
7. Weigh the glass tube with the copper(II) oxide and record its weight.
8. Keep the glass tube horizontal and attach one end to the silicone tube on lid 1.
Connect the other end to the silicone tube on lid 2. Note: keep the glass tube
horizontal at all times otherwise the powder might spill into well F1 or F6.
15
9. Fill the syringe with 1 ml of 2 mol dm-3 sulphuric acid. Fit the nozzle of the
syringe into the syringe inlet on lid 1.
Watch Out! Be careful when you handle acids. Acids are corrosive.
10. Light the microburner (refer to pg 11, Chap 1) and place it away from the
comboplate.
11. Add the sulphuric acid very slowly from the syringe into well F1.
12. Using a propette, add slowly through the tube connector, 2 – 3 drops of
copper(II) sulphate solution into well F1.
13. When a few bubbles have come through the water in well F6, bring the flame of
the microburner to the middle of the glass tube where the copper(II) oxide
powder has been placed. Hold the microburner in this position.
Caution: Do not bring the flame of the microburner near the silicone tubes
(as they will melt) or the vent of well F1 (as hydrogen is explosive)
14. Stop heating the copper(II) oxide powder after about 2 minutes or after it has
changed in appearance. Blow out the microburner flame.
15. Continue the flow of hydrogen gas, H2, until the apparatus cools down to room
temperature.
16. Weigh the glass tube and its content and record the weight.
17. If there is water being sucked up from well F6 into the glass tube, disconnect
lid 2 from well F6.
18. Repeat heating, cooling and weighing in steps 13 to 16 until a constant mass is
achieved. Record the constant mass in your notebook.
Caution: A mixture of hydrogen and air will explode when lighted.
Note: The 2 mol dm-3 sulphuric acid, granulated zinc and 1 mol dm-3 copper(II)
sulphate solution can be replaced by 5.5 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid and zinc
powder.
Description Mass (g)

Glass tube
Glass tube + copper(II) oxide
Glass tube + copper
Copper
Oxygen
Moles
Moles of copper
Moles of oxygen
Mole ratio
16
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Describe what happens to the CuO(s).

2. What other changes occur in the glass tube?
3. What chemical reaction has occurred in the tube? Write down the chemical
reaction for the production of hydrogen.
4. Why do you need to repeat heating, cooling and weighing until a constant mass is
achieved?
5. Based on your results, calculate the empirical formula of copper(II) oxide.
References:
1. Low, S.N., Lim, Y.C., Eng, N.H., Lim, E.W. & Ahmad, U.K. & Tan, L.L. (2005).
Chemistry practical book form 4, Abadi Ilmu Sdn. Bhd: Petaling Jaya.

17
Chapter 3: Chemical Formulae and Equations
B. Constructing balanced chemical equations
Objective: To construct balanced chemical equations
Apparatus: Comboplate, glass fusion tube, silicone tube, crossarms for microstand,
microspatula, propettes, lid 2, microburner, W-tube.
Materials: Copper(II) carbonate, CuCO3 powder, lime water, Ca(OH)2, concentrated

hydrochloric acid, HCl, concentrated ammonia, NH3 solution, lead(II)
nitrate, Pb(NO3)2 solution and potassium iodide, KI solution.
Procedure:
I. Heating of copper(II) carbonate
Figure 3.2
1. Hold the fusion tube in a horizontal position. Use the narrow end of a plastic
microspatula to fill about ½ of the fusion tube with copper(II) carbonate powder.
Note its color.
2. Set up the apparatus as shown in Figure 3.2 (refer to pg 11, Chap 1 for setting up
of microburner).
3. Heat the copper(II) carbonate and pass the gas produced through limewater in
well F4. Observe what happens to the copper(II) carbonate and the limewater.
4. When the reaction is completed, withdraw the silicone tube.
5. Record the observations in the notebook.
18
II. Formation of ammonium chloride
Figure 3.3
1. Using a propette, place three or four drops of concentrated hydrochloric acid in

one of the outer tubes of the W-tube.
2. Using another propette, place three or four drops of concentrated ammonia
solution into the other outer tube of the W-tube.
3. Shake the W-tube carefully to allow the gases to flow.
Caution: Do not shake vigorously. It may cause the solutions to mix together.
4. Observe what happens in the middle of the W-tube and record your observations.
Caution: Concentrated hydrochloric acid and ammonia are corrosive and

harmful. Therefore, handle these solutions carefully and carry out
these activities in the fume chamber.
III. Precipitation of lead(II) iodide
Figure 3.4
19
1. Using a propette, place the lead(II) nitrate solution until ¼ of well F1 of the
comboplate is filled up.
2. Add the potassium iodide solution until half of the well is filled up.
3. Stir the mixture using a microspatula and observe what happens.
4. Record your observations in your notebook.
Section Reactants Products
II
III
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Construct a table to fill in the following data.

a) The reactants and products in Sections I, II and III.
b) The state of each reactant and product that is whether it exists as a solid,
liquid, gas or aqueous solution.
c) The chemical formula of each of the reactants and products.
2. Write a balanced chemical equation for each reaction that occurs.
References:

3. Gupta, H.O. (2007). A novel W-Tube for microscale experiments in chemistry.

Journal of Chemical Education, 84(2), 321.
20
Chapter 4: Periodic table of elements
A. Investigating the chemical properties of group 17 elements.
Objective: To investigate the chemical properties of group 17 elements.
I. Reactions of halogens with water
Apparatus: Comboplate, syringe, silicone tube, lid 1, lid 2, propette, microspatula,

blue litmus paper.
Materials: 2 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid, HCl, household bleach, potassium bromide,
KBr solution, potassium manganate(VII), KMnO4, iodine, I2 solid,
distilled water.
Caution: Chlorine gas, bromine gas and solid iodine are poisonous. Carry out the
experiment in the fume chamber. Wear gloves and safety goggles when
handling these halogens.
Procedure:
a) Chlorine with water
Figure 4.1
1. Pass the chlorine gas into 1 cm3 of distilled water in well F2, as shown in Figure
4.1.
2. Put a piece of blue litmus paper into the solution produced in well F2.
3. Observe any changes in colour.
4. Record the observations in a table in your notebook.
21
b) Bromine with water
Figure 4.2
1. Pass the bromine gas into 1 cm3 of distilled water in well F3, as shown in Figure
4.2.
2. Put a piece of blue litmus paper into the solution produced.
4. Record the observations in your notebook.
c) Iodine with water
Figure 4.3
1. Put a small piece of solid iodine into 1 cm3 of distilled water in well F4.
2. Stir the mixture using a microspatula until no further changes occur.
3. Put a piece of blue litmus paper into the solution produced.
5. Record the observations in a table.
22
II. Reactions of halogens with iron
Apparatus: Comboplate, syringe, silicone tube, glass tube, propette, fusion tube,
crossarms microstand, microburner, plasticine.
Materials: 2 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid, HCl, household bleach, iron, Fe powder,
potassium bromide, KBr, potassium manganate(VII), KMnO4, solid
iodine, I2, hot water, soda lime.
Procedure:
a) Chlorine with iron
Figure 4.4
1. Set up the apparatus as shown in Figure 4.4.

2. Heat the iron powder in the glass tube strongly with a microburner (refer to pg 11,
Chap 1 for setting up of microburner).
3. When the iron powder becomes red hot, add the 1.0 cm3 of hydrochloric acid very
slowly using the syringe, so that the chlorine gas produced will pass over the hot
iron powder.
4. Observe any changes. Record the observations in a table in your notebook.
23
b) Bromine with iron
Figure 4.5

2. Heat the iron powder in the combustion tube strongly.
3. When the iron powder becomes red hot, add the potassium manganate(VII)
solution very slowly, so that the bromine gas produced will pass over the hot iron
powder.
4. Observe any changes. Record your observations in a table in your notebook.
c) Iodine with iron
Figure 4.6
24
1. Put some iodine in a fusion tube and set up the apparatus as shown in Figure 4.6.
2. Heat the iron powder in the glass tube strongly.
3. When the iron powder becomes red hot, heat the iodine crystals in the fusion tube
to sublime it.
4. Pass the iodine vapor over the hot iron powder until no further changes occur.
5. Record your observations in a table in your notebook.
III. Reactions of halogens with sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution
Apparatus: Comboplate, syringe, silicone tube, lid 1, lid 2, propette, microspatula.
Materials: 2 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid, HCl, household bleach, potassium bromide,
KBr, potassium manganate(VII), KMnO4, iodine, I2 solid, 2 mol dm-3 sodium
hydroxide, NaOH solution.
Procedure:
a) Chlorine with sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution
Figure 4.7
1. Pass the chlorine gas into 1 cm3 of sodium hydroxide solution in well F2, as
shown in Figure 4.7.
2. Observe any changes in colour. Record your observations in your notebook.
Caution: Be careful when handling halogens and sodium hydroxide solution.
25
b) Bromine with sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution.
Figure 4.8
1. Pass the bromine gas into 1 cm3 of sodium hydroxide solution in well F3 as
shown in Figure 4.8.
2. Observe any changes in colour. Record your observations in your notebook.
c) Iodine with sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution
Figure 4.9
1. Put a small piece of solid iodine, I2 into 1 cm3 of sodium hydroxide solution in
well F4.
2. Stir the mixture using a microspatula until no further changes occur.
26
4. Record your observations in a table in your notebook.
Halogen Observation
Reactant Chlorine Bromine Iodine
Water
Iron powder
Sodium hydroxide
Construct a hypothesis for the experiment involving halogens and sodium hydroxide.
State the variables and the operational definition.
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. In Section I,
a) State the properties exhibited by each halogen when they react with water.
b) What are the products formed when chlorine, bromine and iodine react
with water?
c) Write the chemical equations for the reactions.
2. What is the function of soda lime in Section II?
27
3. Why must the iron powder be heated first before these halogens are passed over it
in Section II?
4. a) What are the products for the reactions between chlorine, bromine and iodine
with iron?
b) Write the chemical equations for these reactions.
5. a) What are the products when chlorine, bromine and iodine react with sodium
hydroxide, NaOH solution?
b) Write the chemical equations for these reactions.
6. Describe the changes in reactivity of Group 17 elements when going down the
group. Explain your answers.
References:

3. Microscale gas chemistry: experiments with chlorine. Retrieved from:

http://mattson.creighton.edu/Microscale_Gas_Chemistry.html.
28
Chapter 4: Periodic table of elements
B. Studying the properties of oxides of the elements in Period 3.
Objective: To study the properties of the oxides of elements in Period 3.
Apparatus: Comboplate, microspatulas, propette, syringe, glass rod, microburner, and

2 cm3 syringe.
Chemicals: Sodium oxide, Na2O, magnesium oxide, MgO, aluminium oxide, Al2O3,
silicone(IV) oxide, SiO2, phosphorus pentoxide, P2O5, universal indicator
solution, 2 mol dm-3 nitric acid, HNO3, and 2 mol dm-3 sodium hydroxide,
NaOH solution distilled water.
Procedure:
I. Reaction of oxides of Period 3 elements with water.
Figure 4.10
1. Use a clean propette to fill half of wells F1 to F5 with distilled water.

2. Use the spooned ends of different microspatulas to add sodium oxide, magnesium
oxide, aluminium oxide, silicone dioxide, and phosphorus pentoxide to wells F1
to F5 respectively.
3. Stir the solution using the microspatula and observe the solubility of the oxides.
4. Add one drop of universal indicator solution to each solution and record the pH of
the solution.
29
II. Reaction of oxides of Period 3 elements with 2 M nitric acid and 2 M sodium
hydroxide solutions
Figure 4.11
1. Use the spooned end of a microspatula to place one level spatula of sodium oxide
powder into wells F1 and E1 of the comboplate.
2. Fill the syringe with 0.5 cm3 of nitric acid and 0.5 cm3 of sodium hydroxide to the
contents in each well F1 and E1.
3. Light the microburner (refer to pg 11, Chap 1) and fully heat one end of the glass
rod in the flame.
Caution: Do not keep the rod in the flame for a long period.
4. Heat the reaction mixture in F1 by stirring with the heated glass rod.
5. Rinse and dry the rod, and repeat the heating process a few times.
6. Repeat this process to the contents of E1.
7. Record the solubility of sodium oxide in the two solutions.
8. Repeat the experiment with magnesium oxide, aluminium oxide, silicon(IV)
oxide and phosphorus(V) oxide respectively in wells F2 to F5 and E2 to E5.
Observations
I. Oxide Solubility in water pH values of solution Inference
Na2O
MgO
Al2O3
SiO2
P2O5
30
II.
Oxide Solubility in 2 mol dm-3 Solubility in 2 mol dm-3 Inference
NaOH HNO3
Na2O
MgO
Al2O3
SiO2
P2O5
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Why are nitric acid and sodium hydroxide solution used in this experiment?
2. Write the chemical equations for all the reactions of the oxides of Period 3
elements with water, if any.
3. Write the chemical equations for the reactions of sodium hydroxide solution and
nitric acid with
a) Magnesium oxide, MgO, if any.
b) Aluminium oxide, Al2O3, if any.
References:
31
Chapter 5: Chemical bonds
A. Preparation of ionic compounds
Objective: To prepare ionic compounds
I. Preparation of magnesium oxide
Apparatus: Microcrucible, microtripod stand, pipe-clay triangle, microburner.
Materials: Magnesium ribbon, sand paper and methylated spirit.
Procedure:
Figure 5.1
1. Obtain a 2 cm length of magnesium ribbon.

2. Use sand paper to remove the oxide layer on the surface of the magnesium ribbon.
3. Place the magnesium ribbon in a microcrucible as shown in Figure 5.1.
4. Heat the magnesium ribbon strongly with a microburner (refer to pg 11, Chap 1).
5. Observe what happens to the magnesium ribbon. Record it in your notebook.
32
II. Preparation of iron(III) chloride
Apparatus: Comboplate, syringe, silicone tube, glass tube, propette and microburner.
Materials: Iron, Fe powder, household bleach, 2 mol dm-3 Hydrochloric acid, HCl
and sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution.
Figure 5.2
Procedure:
1. Setup the apparatus as shown in Figure 5.2.

2. Heat the iron powder in the glass tube strongly.
3. When the iron powder becomes red hot, add the 1.0 cm3 of hydrochloric acid
using the syringe very slowly, so that the chlorine gas produced passes over the
hot iron powder.
4. Observe any changes. Record your observations in a table in your notebook.
Watch Out! Chlorine gas is poisonous. Do not inhale the gas.
Experiment Observations
I
II
33
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. a) What are the products of all three reactions?

b) Give the chemical equations for the reactions.
References:


http://mattson.creighton.edu/Microscale_Gas_Chemistry.html.
34
Chapter 5: Chemical bonds
B. Comparing the properties of ionic and covalent compounds
Objective: To compare the properties of ionic and covalent compounds
I. Melting point and boiling point
Apparatus: Comboplate, microspatula, propette.
Materials: Sodium chloride, NaCl, sodium sulphate, Na2SO4, diethyl ether, (C2H5)2O
and hexane, C6H14.
Procedure:
Figure 5.3
1. Use the spooned end of a microspatula to place one level spatula of sodium
chloride and sodium sulphate into wells F1 and F2 of the comboplate.
2. Use the propette to place three drops of diethyl ether and hexane into wells F3 and
F4 respectively.
3. Observe their physical states. Leave them aside for 5 minutes and then observe
what happens.
4. Make inferences regarding their melting points and boiling points.
35
Compound Physical state After 5 minutes Inference
Sodium chloride
Sodium sulphate
Diethyl ether
Hexane
II. Solubility in water and organic solvents
Apparatus: Comboplate, Durham tubes, propette.
Materials: Sodium chloride, NaCl, sodium sulphate, Na2SO4, diethyl ether, (C2H5)2O,
hexane, C6H14 and cyclohexane, C6H12.
Figure 5.4
Procedure:
1. Use a spooned end of a microspatula to place two leveled spatulas of sodium

chloride in a Durham tube. Add 10 drops of water into it. Shake and observe
whether sodium chloride is soluble or not in water.
2. Place the Durham tube slanting in well F1 of the comboplate.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 using cyclohexane as a solvent in place of water.
4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 by using two leveled spatulas of sodium sulphate.
5. Repeat steps 1 to 3 by using 10 drops of diethyl ether.
6. Repeat steps 1 to 3 by using 10 drops of hexane.
36
Solubility
Compound
In water In organic solvent
Sodium chloride
Sodium sulphate
Diethyl ether
Hexane
III. Electrical conductivity
Apparatus: Microcrucible, battery 9V, LED, pencil lead, carbon electrodes,

comboplate, microburner, microspatula, wire gauze and microtripod stand.
Materials: Solid lead(II) bromide, PbBr2, glucose, C6H12O6, 1 mol dm-3 sodium
chloride solution, NaCl.
Figure 5.5 Figure 5.6
Procedure:
1. Fill a microcrucible with solid lead(II) bromide until it is half full.

2. Set up the apparatus as shown in Figure 5.5 (refer to pg 11, Chap 1 for setting up
of microburner).
3. Observe whether the LED lights up or not.
4. Heat the solid lead(II) bromide until it melts.
5. Observe again whether the bulb lights up or not.
37
6. Repeat steps 1 to 5 using glucose instead of lead(II) bromide.
7. Use the set-up of apparatus in Figure 5.6 to test the electrical conductivity of the
sodium chloride solution.
Data and observations:
Compound State Observation Inference
Solid
Lead(II) bromide
Molten
Solid
Glucose
Molten
Solid
Sodium chloride
Aqueous solution
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. What can you generalize about the melting point, boiling point, solubility and
electrical conductivity for both covalent and ionic compounds?
References:
38
Chapter 6: Electrochemistry
A. Classifying chemicals into electrolytes and non-electrolytes
Objective: To classify substances into electrolytes and non-electrolytes
Apparatus: 9V battery, pencil leads, LED, microcrucible, microburner, microtripod

stand, small wire gauze, comboplate, propette.
Materials: Lead(II) bromide, PbBr2, naphthalene, C10H8, 0.1 mol dm-3 sodium
hydroxide, NaOH solution, 0.1 mol dm-3 glucose solution and 0.1 mol
dm-3 copper(II) sulphate, CuSO4 solution.
Procedure:
Caution: Carry out Part I of the experiment in the fume chamber.
I. Molten substances
Figure 6.1
1. Fill a microcrucible with solid lead(II) bromide until it is half full.

3. Using a microburner (refer to pg 11, Chap 1), heat the solid lead(II) bromide until
it has melted completely.
4. Connect the battery clip of the LED to the terminals of the 9V battery and pencil
leads.
5. Immerse both the pencil leads into the molten lead(II) bromide.
7. Repeat steps 1 to 6, replacing the solid lead(II) bromide with naphthalene.
39
II. Aqueous solutions
Figure 6.2
1. Use the propette to add sodium hydroxide solution into well E1. Rinse the
propette with tap water to clean it.
2. Push the lid with the current indicator into well E6.
3. Connect the battery clip of the current indicator into well E6.
4. Connect each of the crocodile clip to the carbon rod (pencil leads) as shown in
Figure 6.2.
5. Insert the carbon rod connected to the long black wire into solution in well E1.
Insert the carbon rod connected to the long end of the red wire into the same
solution in well E1. Make sure that the carbon rods do not touch in the solution.
6. Observe what happens to the red light emitting diode (LED) in the current
indicator. Wipe the carbon rods clean.
7. Repeat steps 1-6 using the copper(II) sulphate solution and glucose solution. Use
wells E2, F1 and F2.
Data and Observation:
Substance LED glow Does reaction occur Electrolyte or non-

electrolyte
Molten lead (II)
bromide
Molten naphthalene
Sodium hydroxide
solution
Glucose solution
Copper(II) sulphate
solution
40
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. What substances conduct electricity?

2. What substances do not conduct electricity?
3. What type of substances are electrolytes?
4. What type of substances are non-electrolytes?
References:
41
B. Electrolysis of Molten compounds
Objective: To investigate the electrolysis of molten lead(II) bromide, PbBr2.
Apparatus: 9V battery, pencil leads, current indicator (LED) with wire connection,
microcrucible, microburner, microtripod stand and small wire gauze.
Materials: Lead(II) bromide, PbBr2.
Procedure:
Figure 6.3
1. Fill a microcrucible with lead(II) bromide until it is half full.

2. Place the microcrucible on the wire gauze.
4. Using the microburner (refer to pg 11, Chap 1), heat the solid lead(II) bromide
until it melts.
5. Connect the battery clip of the current indicator to the terminals of the 9 V
battery.
6. Connect each of the crocodile clip to the pencil leads as shown in Figure 6.3.
7. Immerse both of the pencil leads into the molten lead(II) bromide.
8. Observe what happens at the anode. Record all your observations in your
notebook.
9. After 4 minutes, remove the crocodile clips from the pencil leads.
10. Carefully pour out the molten lead(II) bromide into a small beaker to observe
what is formed at the cathode.
42
Electrode Observation Inference
Anode
Cathode
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Name the ions that move to the cathode and the anode during electrolysis.
2. Write half equations that represent the reactions that occur at the
a) Anode
b) Cathode
3. Write the overall equation that represents the electrolysis of lead(II) bromide,
PbBr2.
References:
43
C. Investigating the electrolysis of aqueous solutions
Objective: To investigate the electrolysis of aqueous copper(II) sulphate, CuSO4

solution and sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution.
Apparatus: Comboplate, 9V battery, current indicator (LED) with wire connections, 2

straw electrodes, 1 straw electrode (with carbon electrode), 1 x carbon
electrode (pencil lead), sample vial, box of matches, thin stemmed propette.
Materials: 1.0 mol dm-3 sodium hydroxide, NaOH and 1.0 mol dm-3 copper(II) sulphate,
CuSO4 solution.
Figure 6.4
Procedure:
I. Electrolysis of sodium hydroxide solution
1. Push the current indicator into well E6 of the comboplate.

2. Mark each of the drinking straw electrodes using a permanent marker pen. Let
one of the electrodes be called electrode 1 and the other electrode 2.
3. Fill half of the sample vial with 1.0 mol dm-3 sodium hydroxide solution. Place
the vial into well E5 next to the current indicator in well E6.
4. Hold electrode 1 with the open end upwards and fill the electrode completely with
1.0 mol dm-3 sodium hydroxide solution from the propette.
44
5. Quickly turn electrode 1 the other way up and place it into the solution in the
small sample vial. Repeat this procedure for electrode 2. Return any remaining
solution in the propette to the small sample vial. Use tap water to thoroughly rinse
your fingers free of the sodium hydroxide solution.
6. Connect the end of the black wire from the current indicator to the negative (-)
terminal of the battery. Connect the end of the short black wire to electrode 1.
7. Connect the end of the red wire to the positive terminal (+) of the battery. Connect
the other end of the red wire to electrode 2.
8. Let the substance produced in electrode 1 be called substance A. Let the substance
produced in electrode 2 be called substance B.
9. Record any observation at the anode, cathode and in the electrolytes.
10. Test the gas gathered at the cathode by using a lighted splinter.
11. Test the gas gathered at the anode by using a glowing splinter.
12. Record all the results.
II. Electrolysis of copper(II) sulphate solution

2. Fill half of the sample vial with 1.0 mol dm-3 copper(II) sulphate solution. Place
the vial into well E5 next to the current indicator in well E6.
3. Hold the straw electrode (with carbon electrode) with the open end upwards and
fill the electrode completely with 1.0 mol dm-3 copper(II) sulphate solution from
the propette.
4. Quickly turn the electrode the other way up and place it into the solution in the
small sample vial. Return any remaining solution in the propette to the small
sample vial. Use tap water to thoroughly rinse your finger free of the copper(II)
sulphate solution.
5. Place the carbon electrode (pencil lead) into the solution in the sample vial.
6. Connect the end black wire from the current indicator to the negative (-) terminal
of the battery. Connect the end of the short black wire to the carbon electrode.
7. Connect the end of the red wire to the positive terminal (+) of the battery. Connect
the other end of the red wire to straw electrode.
8. Record any observation at the anode, cathode and in the electrolytes.
9. Light the match. Carefully remove straw electrode from the solution, sealing the
open end with your finger when it is out of the solution. Bring the electrode very
close to the glowing splinter.
Electrolyte Observations
Cathode Anode Change in solution
Sodium hydroxide
Copper(II)
sulphate
45
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. For the electrolysis of copper(II) sulphate solution,

a) Identify the cations and anions.
b) What are the ions that move to the anode and to the cathode?
c) Which ions have been discharged at the anode and at the cathode?
d) Write half equations representing the reactions that occur at the anode and
the cathode.
2. Draw a diagram which shows what happens during the electrolysis of dilute
sulphuric acid, H2SO4. The diagram should show:
a) The ions present in dilute sulphuric acid, H2SO4.

b) The movement of ions to the anode and the cathode.
c) The discharge of ions at the anode and the cathode and their respective half
equations.
References:

46
D. Purification of copper
Objective: To investigate the purification of copper
Apparatus: 9V heavy duty battery, comboplate, current indicator (LED) with wire
connections, sample vial and thin stemmed propette.
Materials: 1 mol dm-3 copper(II) sulphate, CuSO4 solution, impure copper plate, pure
copper plate.
Figure 6.5
Procedure:

2. Remove the lid from the small sample vial and fill half of the vial with 1.0 mol
dm-3 copper(II) sulphate solution. Place the vial into well E5 next to the current
indicator in well E6.
3. The apparatus as shown in the figure 6.5 is set up using the impure copper plate as
the anode and the pure copper plate as the cathode.
4. Allow the electric current to pass through the electrolyte for 5 – 10 minutes.
5. Record any changes at the anode and the cathode.
6. Repeat steps 1 to 5 using impure copper as the cathode and pure copper as the
anode.
47
Electrode Observation
Anode Cathode Anode Cathode
Impure copper Pure copper
Pure copper Impure copper
Conclusions:
References:
48
E. Electroplating an object with copper
Objective: To investigate the electroplating of an object with copper
Apparatus: 9V heavy duty battery, comboplate, current indicator (LED) with wire
connections, sample vial and thin stemmed propette.
Materials: 1.0 mol dm-3 copper(II) sulphate solution, copper electrode/plate, iron nail,
sandpaper.
Figure 6.6
Procedure:
1. Clean a piece of iron nail with sand paper. Wash the iron nail with detergent and
rinse thoroughly with water.
3. Remove the lid from a small sample vial and fill half of the vial with 1.0 mol dm-3
copper(II) sulphate solution. Place the vial into well E5 next to the current
indicator in well E6.
4. Set up the apparatus using the iron nail as the cathode and a copper electrode as
the anode as shown in figure 6.6.
5. Switch the current off after 2 – 3 minutes.
6. Remove the iron nail from the electrolyte and dry it. Record the change to the iron
nail.
7. Repeat steps 1 – 6 by using copper as the cathode and iron nail as the anode.
49
Set Electrode Observation

Anode Cathode
I Copper Iron nail
II Iron nail Copper
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. What three conditions are necessary to electroplate an iron spoon with copper?
2. A good electroplating process is one that results in an even thin layer of coating.
Suggest 2 ways on how this can be achieved.
References:
50
F. Production of electricity from chemical reactions in a simple voltaic

cell
Objective: To show the production of electricity from chemical reactions in a simple

voltaic cell
Apparatus: 1 x Comboplate, 1 x thin stemmed propette, wire connections, 1 x voltmeter,

1 x sample vial.
Materials: 1.0 mol dm-3 Sodium chloride, NaCl solution, copper plate and magnesium
ribbon.
Figure 6.7
Procedure:
1. Clean a piece of magnesium ribbon and a copper plate with sandpaper.

2. Fill half of the small sample vial with 1.0 mol dm-3 sodium chloride solution.
Place the vial into well E6.
3. Immerse the magnesium ribbon and copper plate in the sodium chloride solution
and connect both metals to the voltmeter/multimeter by using the wire
connections.
4. Record the reading of the voltmeter and any changes at the electrodes.
5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 using the copper plate instead of magnesium ribbon.
51
Type of metal Voltmeter reading (V) Observation
Magnesium/copper
(Mg/Cu)
Copper/copper
(Cu/Cu)
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Explain how electricity is produced in a simple voltaic cell. Give the half
equations for the reactions that take place.
2. Predict what will happen if sodium chloride, NaCl solution is replaced by
potassium sulphate, K2SO4 solution. Give your reasons.
References:
52
G. Production of electricity from chemical reactions in a Daniel cell
Objective: To show the production of electricity from chemical reactions in a Daniel

cell
Apparatus: 1 x comboplate, 2 x thin stemmed propette, 2 wire connections, 1 x

multimeter/voltmeter, filter paper, scissors.
Materials: 1.0 mol dm-3 copper(II) nitrate, Co(NO3)2 solution, 1.0 mol dm-3 zinc nitrate
Zn(NO3)2 solution, copper strip, zinc foil, potassium nitrate, KNO3, saturated
solution.
Figure 6.8
Procedure:
1. Using the E row of the comboplate, fill half of E1 and E2 with copper(II) nitrate
and zinc nitrate solution respectively.
2. Make a salt bridge from the filter paper. Cut the paper into a shape given below so
that it will form a continuous bridge between 2 wells.
53
3. To make the salt bridge complete, place the cut out filter paper into a beaker
containing a saturated solution of potassium nitrate. Remove the salt bridge and
place it into wells E1 and E2.
4. Clean up the copper plate and zinc foil with sand paper.
5. Immerse the copper plate in the copper(II) nitrate solution and zinc foil in the zinc
nitrate solution. Connect both metals to the voltmeter/multimeter using the wire
connections.
6. Observe what happens to the voltmeter, zinc foil, copper plate and copper(II)
nitrate solution.
Type of metal Observation
Zinc
Copper
Copper(II) sulphate
solution
Voltmeter
Conclusions:
References:
2. Tan, Y.T., Loh, W.L. & Tan, O.T. (2007). Success Chemistry SPM, Integrated
Curriculum for Secondary School, Oxford Fajar Sdn. Bhd: Shah Alam.
3. Microscale 30 Voltaic cells. http://dwb.unl.edu/Chemistry/MicroScale/MScale20.html
54
H. Constructing the electrochemical series using the principle of displacement of

metals
Objective: To construct the electrochemical series using the principle of

displacement of metals
Apparatus: Comboplate, thin stemmed propette
Materials: 1.0 mol dm-3 copper(II) nitrate, Cu(NO3)2 solution, 1.0 mol dm-3 lead(II)
nitrate, Pb(NO3)2 solution, 1.0 mol dm-3 zinc nitrate, Zn (NO3)2 solution, 1.0
mol dm-3 magnesium nitrate, Mg(NO3)2 solution, copper strip, lead strip, zinc
strip, magnesium ribbon and sand paper.
Figure 6.9
Procedure:
1. Fill half of F1, F2, F3 and F4 wells in the comboplate with copper(II) nitrate
solution.
2. Clean a piece of copper strip, lead strip, zinc strip and magnesium ribbon
respectively with sand paper and drop into each of the wells.
3. Allow the reaction to proceed for five minutes.
4. Observe any changes in the colour of the solution and whether any metals are
deposited.
5. Repeat step 1 to 4 by using lead(II) nitrate solution, zinc nitrate solution and
magnesium nitrate solution respectively to replace copper(II) nitrate solution.
6. Record the results of the experiment in a table below.
55
Solution Copper(II) nitrate Lead(II) nitrate Zinc nitrate Magnesium

Metals nitrate
Copper
Lead
Zinc
Magnesium
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Why is magnesium not displaced by any other metals in this experiment?

2. Write the equations to show all displacement reactions involving zinc.
References:
2. Eng, N.H., Lim, E.W. & Lim, Y.C (2006).Focus excel chemistry form 4. Penerbitan
Pelangi Sdn. Bhd: Bangi.
56
Chapter 7: Acids and Bases
A. Investigating the role of water in showing the properties of acids
Objective: To investigate the role of water in showing the properties of acids
Apparatus: Comboplate, thin stemmed propettes, microspatula
Materials: Glacial ethanoic acid, CH3COOH, ethanol, C2H5OH, blue litmus paper, water.
1 2 3 4 5 6
Blue litmus Blue litmus Blue litmus

F paper+ paper+ paper+
ethanoic ethanoic ethanoic
acid acid+water acid+
ethanol
Figure 7.1
Procedure:
1. Place a piece of dry blue litmus paper in well F1 of the comboplate.

2. Use the propette to draw up some dry glacial ethanoic acid.
3. Place a few drops of the glacial ethanoic acid onto the blue litmus paper.
4. Observe the effect of the glacial ethanoic acid on the litmus paper. Record your
observations in the table.
5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 using ethanoic acid in water and ethanoic acid in ethanol to
replace glacial ethanoic acid in the wells F2 and F3.
6. Tabulate the observations in the table.
57
Type of acid Observation
Glacial ethanoic acid, CH3COOH
Ethanoic acid, CH3COOH in water
Ethanoic acid, CH3COOH in ethanol
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. What is the ion responsible for changing the colour of blue litmus paper? How is
it produced?
2. Why does glacial ethanoic acid, CH3COOH not show acidic properties?
3. When ethanoic acid, CH3COOH is dissolved in propanone, CH3COCH3, it does
not change the colour of blue litmus paper. Why?
4. When ethanoic acid is dissolved in water, it turns the litmus paper red. Why?
References:
58
Chapter 7: Acid and Bases
B. Studying the chemical properties of acids
Objective: To study the chemical properties of acids
Apparatus: 10 cm3 beaker, microspatula, filter funnel, retort stand and clamp, micro
burner, 25 cm3 conical flask, test tube, filter paper, wire gauze,
microtripod stand, microcrucible, 10 cm3 measuring cylinder.
Materials: Copper(II) oxide, CuO powder, zinc powder, 1 mol dm-3 sulphuric acid, 2
mol dm-3 nitric acid, HNO3, 2 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid, HCl, calcium
carbonate, CaCO3, lime water, wooden splinter and filter paper.
I. Reactions of acids with bases
Figure 7.2
59
Procedure:
1. Pour about 5 cm3 of 1 mol dm-3 sulphuric acid, into a 10 cm3 beaker. Warm the
acid with a microburner (refer to pg 11, Chap 1).
2. Use a microspatula to add copper(II) oxide powder bit by bit into the acid. Stir the
mixture well.
3. Continue adding copper(II) oxide until some of it no longer dissolves.
4. Remove the unreacted copper(II) oxide by filtration.
5. Pour the filtrate into a microcrucible. Gently heat the salt solution to produce a
saturated solution.
6. Cool the saturated solution until crystals are formed.
7. Filter out the copper(II) sulphate crystals. Examine the crystals and record your
observations in your notebook.
Test on acid Observation Inference
Heating with
copper(II) oxide
Questions:
1. How do you know that an acid-base reaction has occurred?

2. How is the product of the reaction obtained?
3. What are the products of the reaction? Write an equation for the reaction.
4. Complete the following,
Acid + Base → ___________ + ___________
60
II. Reactions of acids with metals
Figure 7.3
Procedure:
1. Pour 5 cm3 of 2 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid into a 10 cm3 beaker. Warm the acid
with a microburner.
2. Use a microspatula to add zinc powder bit by bit into the acid. Stir the mixture
well.
3. Test the gas produced by using a lighted splinter.
4. Continue adding zinc powder until some of it no longer dissolves.
5. Remove the unreacted zinc powder by filtration.
saturated solution.
8. Filter out the zinc sulphate crystals. Examine the crystals and record your
Test with zinc

powder
61
Questions:
1. How do you know that the acid has reacted with the metal?
2. What is the lighted splinter for?
3. What is the salt and gas produced in the reaction? Write a balanced equation for
the reaction between hydrochloric acid, HCl and zinc.
4. Complete the following.
Acid + Metal → __________ + __________
III. Reactions of acids with metal carbonates
Figure 7.4
Procedure:
1. Pour 5 cm3 of 2 mol dm-3 nitric acid into 10 cm3 beaker. Warm the acid with a
microburner.
2. Add calcium carbonate into the acid with a microspatula.
3. Continue adding calcium carbonate until some of it no longer dissolves.
4. Remove the unreacted calcium carbonate by filtration.
saturated solution.
7. Filter out the calcium nitrate crystals. Examine the crystals and record your
62
Test with calcium

carbonate
Questions:
1. Write an equation for the reaction between nitric acid and calcium carbonate.
What are the products formed?
2. Complete the following.
Acid + Carbonate → __________ + ___________ + ___________
Conclusions:
References:
63
C. Studying the chemical properties of bases
Objective: To study the chemical properties of bases
Apparatus: Comboplate, 10 cm3 beaker, microspatula, filter funnel, microburner, 25

cm3 conical flask, test tube, filter paper, wire gauze, microtripod stand,
microcrucible, 10 cm3 measuring cylinder.
Material: 1 mol dm-3 sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution, benzoic acid powder,
ammonium chloride, NH4Cl powder, iron(II) sulphate, FeSO4 solution,
litmus paper.
I. Reactions of bases with acids
Figure 7.5
Procedure:
1. Pour about 5 cm3 of 1 mol dm-3 sodium hydroxide solution into a 10 cm3 beaker.
2. Use a microspatula to add benzoic acid powder bit by bit into the acid. Stir the mixture
well.
64
3. Continue adding benzoic acid until some of it no longer dissolves.
4. Remove the unreacted benzoic acid by filtration.
5. Pour the filtrate into a microcrucible. Gently heat the salt solution with a microburner
(refer to pg 11, Chap 1) to produce a saturated solution.
7. Filter out the sodium benzoate crystals. Examine the crystals and record your
II. Reactions of bases with ammonium salts
Figure 7.6
Procedure:
1. Fill one third of well F1 of the comboplate with sodium hydroxide solution.
2. Add a microspatula of ammonium chloride powder in the well.
3. Test the gas formed using moist red litmus paper.
4. Observe what happen to the litmus paper.
III. Reactions of bases with metal ions
Procedure:
1. Add 10 drops of iron(II) sulphate solution into the well F2 of the comboplate.
2. Add 1 drop of sodium hydroxide solution into the well. Observe what happen.
Test on sodium Observation Inference

hydroxide
With benzoic acid
powder added
65
Heating with
ammonium chloride
powder
With iron(II) sulphate
solution
Conclusions:
References:
66
D. Measuring the pH of solutions used in daily life
Objective: To measure the pH of solutions used in daily life
Aparatus: Comboplate, thin stemmed propettes, microspatula.
Materials: Vinegar, lemon juice, soap solution, distilled water, carbonated drink, tap
water, rainwater, dilute hydrochloric acid, HCl and dilute sodium hydroxide,
NaOH solution, universal indicator solution
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
A Vinegar Lemon Soap Distill- Carbona Tap Rain Dilute Dilute

juice solution ed -ted water water HCl NaOH
water drink
Figure 7.7
Procedure:
1. Add 10 drops of vinegar to well A1.

2. Add 10 drops of lemon juice to well A2.
3. Add 10 drops of soap solution to well A3.
4. Add 10 drops of distilled water to well A4.
5. Add 10 drops of carbonated drink to well A5.
6. Add 10 drops of tap water to well A6.
7. Add 10 drops of rainwater to well A7.
8. Add 10 drops of dilute hydrochloric acid to well A8.
9. Add 10 drops of dilute sodium hydroxide to well A9.
67
10. Add 1 drop of universal indicator solution into each of the wells, A1 to A9.
11. Stir the solution in each well with a clean plastic microspatula.
12. Observe the pH of all the solutions and record your observations in the table.
Well Number Colour of solution Proposed pH
A1 (Vinegar)
A2 (Lemon juice)
A3 (Soap solution)
A4 (Distilled water)
A5 (Carbonated drink)
A6 (Tap water)
A7 (Rain water)
A8 (HCl)
A9 (NaOH)
Conclusions:
References:

68
E. Determining the end point of the titration between hydrochloric acid, HCl and
sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution using an acid-base indicator.
Objective: To determine the end point of the titration between hydrochloric acid,
HCl and sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution using an acid-base indicator
Apparatus: 1 x comboplate, 1 x microstand, 2 x microburette, 1 x syringe, 1 x

microspatula, 1 x silicone tube, propettes and white paper.
Materials: 0.100 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid, HCl, 0.1 mol dm-3 sodium hydroxide,
NaOH, phenolphthalein solution.
Figure 7.8
69
Procedure:
1. Assemble the microburette as shown. Push the plastic microstand into well D2 of the
comboplate. Orient the pairs of arms on the central stem of the microstand so that one
arm of each pair is directly above well F1. Clip the assembled microburette into each
arm of the microstand above well F1.
2. Put the comboplate on a piece of white paper.
3. Rinse the 2 cm3 microburette with the sodium hydroxide solution in the following
way:
(i) Set up the microburette as in Figure 7.8 by attaching the plastic
syringe to the top of the 2 cm3 microburette using silicone tubing.
Place the plastic tip at the other end of the microburette.
(ii) Rinse the microburette with sodium hydroxide. Use the syringe to fill
up the microburette through the plastic tip. Repeat this rinsing process
twice.
4. Fill the rinsed microburette with exactly 1.00 cm3 of the sodium hydroxide solution.
Dispense all this solution into well F1 of the comboplate. Repeat this step twice,
dispensing the 1.00 cm3 aliquots of sodium hydroxide into wells, F2 and F3.
5. Empty the microburette, rinse it with water.
6. Rinse the microburette at least three times with the hydrochloric acid, HCl.
7. Fill the microburette with the HCl to the 0.00 cm3 level (or there about). Read the
level of the meniscus and record this as the initial volume of HCl (titration 1).
8. Use the thin stemmed propette to add one drop of phenolphthalein solution to the
NaOH in the well F1.
9. Position the microburette above the comboplate so that the tip of the microburette is
above well F1.
Note: Do not place the microburette too close to well F1 as the plastic
microspatula may knock against it during stirring of the solution in the well. This
may cause drops of the solution to splash out of the well.
10. Push down gently on the syringe plunger and add one drop of HCl into well F1. Stir
the solution in well F1 with plastic microspatula. Be careful not to spill any solution
out of the well. Leave the microspatula in the well during the titration.
11. Continue to add HCl from the microburette one drop at a time until the indicator
changes colour from pink to colourless. Stir the solution in well F1 after each drop is
added.
12. Observe the volume of HCl in the microburette and record this as the final volume.
Calculate the volume of HCl dispensed.
70
13. Refill the microburette with the HCl and record the initial volume (Titration 2).
14. Add one drop of phenolphthalein indicator to the NaOH in well F2. Position the
microburette above well F2 by moving the plastic microstand to another small well in
the D row of the comboplate.
15. Now, that you know the approximate volume of the HCl required to titrate the NaOH,
you can add the HCl a little more quickly than before until about 0.04 cm3 before the
expected end point. Stir thoroughly.
16. Add the HCl slowly, one drop at a time with stirring, until the indicator changes from
pink to colourless. Record the final volume (Titration 3).
17. Repeat the titration in well F3.
Note: Reject any results where the end point has been overshot.
Titration No. 1 2 3
Volume of HCl/ cm3

Final burette reading (cm3)
Initial burette reading (cm3)
Volume of hydrochloric acid,

HCl needed (cm3)
Average volume of HCl used:
Conclusions:
71
Questions:
1. a) What is the average volume of HCl needed to neutralize 25.0 cm3 of NaOH?
b) Write the equation for the neutralization reaction.
2. a) How is the end point of the titration determined?
b) How else could you determine the end point?
3. Explain the following:
a) A clean burette has to be rinsed with a little acid before filling it up.
b) There must be no air bubbles in the tip of the burette.
c) Burette readings must be taken at eye level.
d) There is no need to rinse the conical flask with NaOH.
References:
2. Bell, B., Akoobhai, B. & Bradley, J. (2005). RADMASTE microtitration experiments.

Manual for secondary school learners. The UNESCO – Associated Centre for
Microscience Experiments.
72
Chapter 8: Salts
A. Solubility of nitrate, sulphate, carbonate and chloride salts.
Objective: To study the solubility of nitrate, sulphate, carbonate and chloride salts.
Apparatus: Comboplate, syringe, microspatula.
Materials: Lead(II) nitrate, Pb(NO3)2, copper(II) nitrate, Cu(NO3)2, magnesium

nitrate, Mg(NO3)2, zinc nitrate, Zn(NO3)2, calcium nitrate, Ca(NO3)2,
copper(II) sulphate, CuSO4, zinc sulphate, ZnSO4, barium sulphate,
BaSO4, magnesium sulphate, MgSO4, lead(II) sulphate, PbSO4, calcium
sulphate, CaSO4,copper(II) carbonate, CuCO3, zinc carbonate, ZnCO3,
potassium carbonate, K2CO3, sodium carbonate, Na2CO3, ammonium
carbonate, magnesium carbonate, MgCO3, copper(II) chloride, CuCl2, zinc
chloride, ZnCl2 and mercury chloride, HgCl2, magnesium chloride, MgCl2
lead(II) chloride, PbCl2 and silver chloride, AgCl.
Procedure:
Figure 8.1
1. Use a spooned end of a plastic microspatula to place 2 leveled spatulas of lead(II)

nitrate powder into well F1 of the comboplate.
2. Use a syringe to add 1 cm3 of distilled water to the well F1. Stir the mixture and
note the solubility of the salt.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 using copper(II) nitrate, magnesium nitrate, zinc
nitrate, calcium nitrate, copper(II) sulphate, zinc sulphate, barium sulphate,
magnesium sulphate, lead(II) sulphate, calcium sulphate, copper(II) carbonate,
zinc carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, ammonium carbonate,
magnesium carbonate, copper(II) chloride, zinc chloride, mercury chloride,
magnesium chloride, lead(II) chloride and silver chloride.
73
Type of salt Salt Solubility

Lead(II) nitrate
Copper(II) nitrate
Nitrate Magnesium nitrate
Zinc nitrate
Calcium nitrate
Copper(II) sulphate
Zinc sulphate
Magnesium sulphate
Sulphate
Barium sulphate
Lead(II) sulphate
Calcium sulphate
Copper(II)chloride
Zinc chloride
Magnesium chloride
Chloride
Mercury chloride
Lead(II) chloride
Silver chloride
Potassium carbonate
Sodium carbonate
Ammonium carbonate
Carbonate
Copper(II) carbonate
Zinc carbonate
Magnesium carbonate
Conclusions:
References:
74
Chapter 8: Salts
B. Preparation of soluble salts by mixing acids with bases
Objective: To prepare soluble salts by mixing acids with bases
Apparatus: Comboplate, microstand, micro crossarms, microburette, pipette tip,

silicone tube, syringe, microspatula, propette, conical flask 10 ml,
microcrucible, microburner, microtripod stand, wire gauze.
Materials: 2 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid, HCl, 2 mol dm-3 potassium hydroxide,
KOH, phenolphthalein.
Procedure:
I. To determine the volume of acid for neutralization
Figure 8.2
75
1. Use the microburette to transfer 2.0 cm3 of potassium hydroxide solution to a
conical flask. Use the propette to add one or two drops of phenolphthalein.
2. Push the plastic microstand into well D1 of the comboplate. Orient the pairs of
arms on the central stem of the microstand so that one arm of each pair is directly
above the conical flask.
3. Fill the burette with hydrochloric acid, HCl and record the initial burette reading.
4. Titrate carefully by slowly adding the acid into the conical flask and shake well.
5. Continue adding the acid until the indicator just turns from pink to colorless.
Record the final burette reading.
6. Determine the volume of acid used to neutralize 2.0 cm3 of the base. (Let the
volume be V cm3).
II. Preparation of the salt
Figure 8.3
1. Use a microburette to transfer 2.0 cm3 of the same potassium hydroxide solution
into a 10 cm3 conical flask. Do not add any indicator.
2. From the microburette, add exactly V cm3 of hydrochloric acid to the base and
shake well.
3. Pour the contents of the conical flask into a microcrucible.
4. Gently heat the solution to evaporate most of the water to produce a saturated
solution with a microburner.
5. Cool the hot saturated salt solution for crystallization to occur.
6. Filter to obtain the potassium chloride crystals.
III. Recrystallisation of the salt.
1. Place the potassium chloride crystals in a 10 cm3 beaker.

2. Add just enough distilled water to cover the crystals. Gently heat the solution and
stir with a microspatula.
3. Filter to remove impurities and pour the filtrate into a microcrucible.
76
4. Gently heat the solution to obtain a saturated salt solution with a microburner.
5. Cool the hot saturated solution to allow it to crystallize.
6. Filter and press the crystals with a few pieces of filter paper to dry them.
7. Study the physical properties of the crystals and record your observations in your
notebook.
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. How do you know when the salt solution is saturated?

2. Write the chemical equation for the reaction to obtain KCl crystals.
3. Name another salt that can be prepared from the reaction between an acid and a
base.
References:
77
Chapter 8: Salts
C. Preparation of soluble salts by mixing an acid with an insoluble metal oxide
Objective: To prepare soluble salts by mixing an acid with an insoluble metal oxide
Apparatus: 10 cm3 beaker, microspatula, filter funnel, microburner, 25 cm3 conical

flask, filter paper, wire gauze, microtripod stand, microcrucible, 10 cm3
measuring cylinder.
Materials: 2 mol dm-3 sulphuric acid, H2SO4 and copper(II) oxide, CuO powder.
Procedure:
Figure 8.4
1. Pour 5 cm3 of 2 mol dm-3 sulphuric acid into a 10 cm3 beaker. Warm the acid with
a microburner (refer to pg 11, Chap 1).
2. Use a microspatula to add copper(II) oxide powder bit by bit into the acid. Stir the
mixture well.
3. Continue adding copper(II) oxide until some of it no longer dissolves.
4. Remove the unreacted copper(II) oxide by filtration.
saturated solution.
78
7. Filter out the copper(II) sulphate crystals.
8. Carry out a crystallization to obtain pure copper(II) sulphate crystals.
9. Study the physical properties of the crystal and record your observation in your
notebook.
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Give the equation for the reaction between HNO3 and copper(II) oxide.
2. Name another salt that can be prepared from the reaction between an acid and an
insoluble metal oxide.
References:
79
Chapter 8: Salts
D. Preparation of insoluble salts by carrying out a precipitation reaction
Objective: To prepare insoluble salts by carrying out a precipitation reaction
Apparatus: 10 cm3 beaker, microspatula, 25 cm3 conical flasks, filter funnel, filter
paper and syringe.
Materials: 0.5 mol dm-3 lead(II) nitrate, Pb(NO3)2, potassium iodide, KI, potassium
chromate(IV), K2Cr2O7, sodium sulphate, Na2SO4, and barium chloride,
BaCl2 solution.
Procedure:
I. Preparation of lead(II) iodide
Figure 8.5
1. Add about 0.5 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm-3 lead(II) nitrate solution and 0.5 cm3 of
0.5 mol dm-3 potassium iodide solution in a 10 cm3 beaker.
2. Stir the mixture thoroughly with a microspatula. A yellow precipitate forms
immediately.
3. Filter the mixture to obtain the yellow lead(II) iodide as the residue.
4. Rinse the residue with distilled water to remove any traces of other ions in it.
5. Dry the yellow residue by pressing it between two pieces of filter paper.
II. Preparation of lead(II) chromate(VI)
1. Add about 0.5 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm-3 lead(II) nitrate solution and 0.5 cm3 of 0.5 mol
dm-3 potassium chromate(VI) solution in a 10 cm3 beaker.
2. Stir the mixture thoroughly with a microspatula. A yellow precipitate forms
immediately.
80
3. Filter the mixture to obtain the yellow lead(II) chromate(VI) as the residue.
4. Rinse the residue with distilled water and dry it between two pieces of filter
paper.
III. Preparation of barium sulphate
1. Add about 0.5 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm-3 barium chloride solution and 0.5 cm3 of 0.5
mol dm-3 sodium sulphate solution in a 10 cm3 beaker.
2. Stir the mixture thoroughly with a microspatula. A white precipitate forms
immediately.
3. Filter the mixture to obtain the white barium sulphate as the residue.
4. Rinse the residue with distilled water and dry it between two pieces of filter
paper.
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Give the equations for the preparation of the three salts.

2. Can this kind of reaction be used prepare NH4Cl? Give reasons for your answer.
3. PbCrO4 cannot be purified by recrystallisation. Why?
References:
81
Chapter 8: Salts
E. Constructing the ionic equation for the formation of lead(II) chromate(VI)
Objective: To construct the ionic equation for the formation of lead(II)

chromate(VI).
Apparatus: Comboplate, Durham tubes, prestick/plasticine, microburette, syringe and

ruler.
Materials: 0.5 mol dm-3 lead(II) nitrate, Pb(NO3)2 solution, 0.5 mol dm-3 potassium
chromate, K2Cr2O7 solution.
Procedure:
Figure 8.6
1. Label seven Durham tubes of the same size from 1 to 7 and place them in the
bigger wells of the comboplate.
2. Fill the syringe 0.5 mol dm-3 potassium chromate(VI) solution. Run in 0.5 cm3 of
the potassium chromate(VI) solution into each of the seven Durham tubes.
3. Fill the microburette with 0.5 mol dm-3 lead(II) nitrate solution. Add 0.10, 0.20,
0.30, 0.40, 0.50, 0.60 and 0.70 cm3 lead(II) nitrate to each of the seven Durham
tubes respectively.
4. Shake each Durham tube well.
5. Place all the tubes in the smaller wells of the comboplate vertically using
prestick/plasticine.
6. Leave it aside for about half an hour to allow the precipitate to settle.
7. Measure the height of the precipitate in each Durham tube.
82
8. Note the colour of the solution above the precipitate in each tube.
9. Record your readings and observations in your notebook as shown in Table
below.
10. Plot a graph of precipitate height against volume of lead(II) nitrate solution.
Durham Tube 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Volume of 0.5 mol dm-3 potassium chromate
0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
(VI) solution (cm3)
Volume of 0.5 mol dm-3 lead(II) nitrate solution
0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7
(cm3)
Height of precipitate (cm)
Colour of solution above precipitate
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Why must you have the volume of Pb(NO3)2 constant?

2. Why are different volumes of potassium chromate(VI) added to each test tube?
3. Why does the colour of the solution above the precipitate change?
4. How does the height of the precipitate formed change? Why?
References:
83
Chapter 8: Salts
F. Carrying out chemical tests to identify gases
Objective: To carry out chemical tests to identify gases.
Apparatus: Comboplate, silicone tube, lid 1, lid 2, syringe, microspatula, glass rod,
W-tube, microburner, combustion and fusion tube, toothpick, propette,
forceps.
Materials: Manganese dioxide, MnO2 powder, fresh hydrogen peroxide solution,

H2O2 (10%), 2 mol dm-3 sulphuric acid, H2SO4, zinc, Zn powder, calcium
carbonate, CaCO3 powder, dilute hydrochloric acid, HCl, lime water,
dilute sodium hydroxide, NaOH solution, ammonium chloride, NH4Cl
powder, household bleach solution, 2 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid, HCl,
sodium chloride, NaCl powder, concentrated sulphuric acid, H2SO4,
concentrated ammonia, NH3, dilute acidified potassium manganate(VII),
KMnO4 solution, sodium sulphate, Na2SO4 powder, lead(II) nitrate,
Pb(NO3)2 powder.
Procedure:
I. Test for oxygen gas, O2
Figure 8.7
1. Use the spooned end of a plastic microspatula to place one leveled spatula of
manganese dioxide powder into well F1 of the comboplate.
2. Seal the well securely with lid 1.
84
3. Attach a piece of silicone tubing to the tube connector on lid 1 so that it slants
away from the syringe inlet.
4. Connect the free end of the silicone tube to the glass combustion tube as shown in
Figure 8.6.
5. Fill the syringe with 0.5 cm3 of freshly prepared 10% hydrogen peroxide solution.
6. Fit the syringe into the syringe inlet on lid 1, but do not add the hydrogen
peroxide to the well yet.
7. Light the microburner (refer to pg 11, Chap 1) and put it down away from the
comboplate.
8. Take the toothpick and hold the narrow end of the splint in the flame of the
microburner until it begins to burn.
9. While the top 1 to 2 cm of the splint is burning, slowly add the hydrogen peroxide
to the manganese dioxide in the well.
10. When the end of the splint is glowing red, put out the flame by either blowing
softly on the splint or shaking it gently.
11. Hold the glowing portion of the splint just above the open end of the glass tube
and observe what happens.
II. Test for hydrogen gas, H2
Figure 8.8
1. Using the propette, add half of well F2 with 2 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid.
2. Add 1-2 leveled spatulas (spooned end) of zinc powder in the well.
3. Light a match, hold it horizontally placing the flame at the mouth of the well and
observe what happens.
85
III. Test for carbon dioxide gas, CO2
Figure 8.9
1. Using the spooned end of the microspatula, place 2 leveled spatulas of calcium
carbonate powder into well F3.
2. Cover well F3 with lid 1.
3. Using a clean propette, fill ¾ of the well F4 with the limewater. Cover well F4
with lid 2.
4. Join well F3 to well F4 by attaching the silicone tube to the tube connectors on
lids of wells F3 and F4.
5. Fill the syringe with 1.0 cm3 of dilute hydrochloric acid. Fit the syringe into lid 1
on well F3.
6. Add the acid dropwise to the calcium carbonate powder in well F3. Observe what
happens.
IV. Test for ammonia gas, NH3
Figure 8.10
86
1. Using the propette, add half of well F5 with dilute sodium hydroxide solution.
2. Add 1 leveled spatula of ammonium chloride into the well and stir the mixture
with a microspatula.
3. Bring a piece of moist red litmus paper to the mouth of the well. Observe what
happens to the litmus paper.
V. Test for chlorine gas
Figure 8.11
1. Using the propette, add half of well F6 with household bleach.

3. Fill the syringe with 0.5 cm3 of 2 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid. Fit the syringe into
lid 1 on well F6.
4. Add the acid dropwise to the bleach in well F6.
5. Bring the moist blue litmus paper above the connector of lid 1 and observe what
happens.
VI. Test for hydrogen chloride gas, HCl
Figure 8.12
87
1. Place 1 leveled spatula of sodium chloride in well F1.
2. Using a propette, add 5-6 drops of concentrated sulphuric acid in well E1.
3. Immerse the glass rod in the concentrated ammonia solution and bring it to the
mouth of well E1. Observe what happens.
VII. Test for sulphur dioxide gas, SO2
Figure 8.13
1. Using a propette, place a few drops of acidified potassium manganate(VII)

solution in one angle of W-tube.
2. Use the spooned end of a microspatula to put sodium sulphate powder in another
angle.
3. Add 2 drops of 2 mol dm-3 hydrochloric acid in sodium sulphate powder.
4. Use a microburner to heat the mixture and use moist blue litmus paper to test the
gas formed.
5. Observe what happens to the litmus paper and acidified potassium manganate
(VII) solution.
88
VIII. Test for nitrogen dioxide gas, NO2.
Figure 8.14
1. Use the narrow end of microspatula to place the lead(II) nitrate powder in a clean
glass fusion tube.
2. Hold the fusion tube using the forceps.
3. Heat the fusion tube with lead(II) nitrate slowly at first and then stronger. Test the
gases formed using moist blue litmus paper.
4. Record the colour of the gas and any changes happen to the litmus paper.
Colour of Smell of Effect on damp Confirmatory test on gas

Name of gas
gas gas litmus
Oxygen gas,
O2
Hydrogen
gas, H2
Carbon
dioxide gas,
CO2
Ammonia
gas, NH3
Chlorine gas,
Cl2
89
Hydrogen
chloride gas,
HCl
Sulphur
dioxide gas,
SO2
Nitrogen
dioxide gas,
NO2
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. List the properties of each gas.

2. Set up a table showing the test and results for each gas.
References:
Chemistry practical book form 4,Abadi Ilmu Sdn. Bhd: Petaling Jaya.

3. Gupta, H.O. (2007). A novel W-Tube for microscale experiments in chemistry.

Journal of Chemical Education, 84(2), 321.

mattson.creighton.edu/Microscale_Gas_Chemistry.html.
90
Chapter 8: Salts
G. Studying the effect of heat on carbonate and nitrate salts
Objective: To study the effect of heat on carbonate and nitrate salts.
Apparatus: Comboplate, silicone tube, lid 2, glass fusion tube, propettes, crossarms
for the microstand, microspatula, microburner, prestik/plasticine, forceps,
splinter.
Materials: Copper(II) carbonate, CuCO3, zinc carbonate, ZnCO3, lead(II) carbonate,

PbCO3, sodium carbonate, Na2CO3, calcium carbonate, CaCO3, potassium
carbonate, K2CO3, magnesium carbonate, MgCO3, sodium nitrate, NaNO3,
calcium nitrate, Ca(NO3)2, zinc nitrate, Zn(NO3)2, iron(II) nitrate,
Fe(NO3)2, iron(III) nitrate, Fe(NO3)3, lead(II) nitrate, Pb(NO3)2, copper(II)
nitrate, Cu(NO3)2 and potassium nitrate, KNO3.
Procedure:
I. Carbonate salts
Figure 8.15
1. Hold the fusion tube in a horizontal position. Use the narrow end of a plastic
microspatula to fill about ½ of the fusion tube with copper(II) carbonate powder.
2. Set up the apparatus as shown in Figure 8.13 (refer to pg 11, Chap 1 to set up
microburner).
3. Heat the carbonate salt strongly.
4. Observe any changes that occur to the lime water.
5. Observe the color of the residue when it is hot and when it is cold.
6. Repeat steps 1 to 5 using each of the carbonates listed in the following table to
replace the copper(II) carbonate.
7. Record all your observations in your notebook.
91
Color of salt Color of residue

Carbonate salt Effect on limewater
before heating Hot Cold
Copper(II)
carbonate, CuCO3
Zinc carbonate,
ZnCO3
Lead(II) carbonate,
PbCO3
Sodium carbonate,
Na2CO3
Calcium carbonate,
CaCO3
Potassium
carbonate, K2CO3
Magnesium
carbonate, MgCO3
Discussion:
1. What role does lime water play in this experiment?

2. Name the gas produced in this experiment.
3. a) What are the carbonates that can be decomposed by heat?
b) Write an equation to represent the decomposition of each carbonate salt.
4. What are the carbonate salts that are not decomposed by heat?
5. What can you infer from the colour change(s) that occur during heating of the
carbonate salts?
II. Nitrate salts
Figure 8.16
92
1. Use the narrow end of a microspatula to place the sodium nitrate powder in a
clean glass fusion tube.
2. Hold the fusion tube using a pair of forceps.
3. Heat the fusion tube slowly and then stronger. Test the gases formed with the
splinter and litmus paper.
4. Record the colour of the gas and any changes that happens to the solid in the
fusion tube.
5. Leave the residue in the fusion tube to cool and record its colour.
6. Repeat steps 1 to 5 using each of the nitrate salts listed in the table to replace
sodium nitrate.
7. Record all your observations in your notebook.
Colour of Colour of residue Effect on Effect on glowing

Nitrate salts salt before damp blue wooden splinter
Hot Cold
heating litmus paper
Sodium nitrate,
NaNO3
Calcium nitrate,
Ca(NO3)2
Magnesium
nitrate, Mg(NO3)2
Zinc nitrate,
Zn(NO3)2
Iron(II) nitrate,
Fe(NO3)2
Iron(III) nitrate,
Fe(NO3)3
Lead(II) nitrate,
Pb(NO3)2
Copper(II) nitrate,
Cu(NO3)2
Potassium nitrate,
KNO3
Questions:
1. Do all nitrates salts decompose to produce the same salts? Justify your answer
with your observations.
2. Write an equation for the decomposition of each nitrate salt.
93
Conclusions:
References:

3. Tan, Y.T., Loh, W.L. & Tan, O.T. (2007). Success chemistry SPM, Integrated
Curriculum for Secondary School, Oxford Fajar Sdn. Bhd: Shah Alam
94
Chapter 8: Salts
H. Testing for the presence of anions in aqueous solutions
Objective: To test for the presence of anions in aqueous solutions
Apparatus: Comboplate, silicone tube, lid 1, lid 2, syringe, propette and microspatula.
Materials: 1 mol dm-3 sodium carbonate, Na2CO3 solution, 1 mol dm-3 sodium
chloride, NaCl, 1 mol dm-3 sodium sulphate, Na2SO4 solution, 1 mol dm-3
sodium nitrate, NaNO3 solution, 1 mol dm-3 iron(II) sulphate, FeSO4
solution, 0.1 mol dm-3 silver nitrate, AgNO3 solution, 1 mol dm-3 barium
chloride, BaCl2, 1 mol dm-3 sulphuric acid, H2SO4, 2 mol dm-3
hydrochloric acid, HCl, 2 mol dm-3 nitric acid, HNO3, red litmus paper,
concentrated sulphuric acid, H2SO4 and lime water.
Procedure:
I. Test for carbonate ion, CO32-
Figure 8.17
1. Using a propette, fill 1/3 of well F1 with sodium carbonate solution.

3. Using a clean propette, fill ¾ of well F2 with the lime water. Cover well F2 with
lid 2.
4. Join well F1 to well F2 by attaching the silicone tube to the tube connectors on
lids of well F1 and F2.
5. Fill the syringe with 1.0 cm3 hydrochloric acid. Fit the syringe into lid 1 on well
F1.
6. Add the acid dropwise to the sodium carbonate solution in well F1. Observe what
happens to the lime water.
95
II. Test for chloride ion, Cl-
Figure 8.18
1. Using a propette, fill 1/3 of well F3 with the sodium chloride, NaCl solution.
2. Add 10 drops of nitric acid into the well F3.
3. Add 10 drops of silver nitrate solution to the mixture in well F3.
4. Stir the mixture using the microspatula and observe what happens.
III. Test for sulphate ion, SO42-
Figure 8.19
1. Using a propette, fill 1/3 of the well F4 with the sodium sulphate solution.
2. Add 10 drops of hydrochloric acid into the well F4.
3. Add 10 drops of barium chloride solution to the mixture in well F4.
4. Stir the mixture using the microspatula and observe what happens.
96
IV. Test for nitrate ion, NO3-
Figure 8.20
1. Using a propette, fill 1/3 of the well F5 with sodium nitrate solution.
2. Add 10 drops of sulphuric acid into the well F5.
3. Add 10 drops of iron(II) sulphate solution to the mixture. Stir the mixture using
microspatula to mix well.
4. Carefully, add 10 drops of concentrated sulphuric acid down the slide of the well
F5. Do not stir the mixture. Observe what happens.
Test Observation Inference
Carbonate ion, CO3-2
Chloride ion, Cl-
Sulphate ion, SO42-
Nitrate ion, NO3-
97
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Give the ionic equation for the reaction between an acid and a carbonate ion.
2. a) What is the white precipitate formed in the test for Cl-?
b) Write the ionic equation.
3. a) What is the white precipitate formed in the test for SO42- ?
b) Write the ionic equation.
4. Why must the solutions be acidified first in the tests for Cl-, SO42- and NO3-?
5. Set up a table showing the test and results for each anion.
References:
Chemistry practical book form 4,Abadi Ilmu Sdn. Bhd: Petaling Jaya.
98
Chapter 9: Manufactured Substances in Industry
A. Preparation of ammonium sulphate fertilizer
Objective: To prepare ammonium sulphate, (NH4)2SO4 fertilizer
Apparatus: Comboplate, microstand, micro crossarms, microburette, pipette tip,

silicone tube, syringe, microspatula, propette, 10 cm3 conical flask,
microcrucible, microburner, microtripod stand, wire gauze, filter funnel,
filter paper, 25 cm3 conical flask.
Materials: 1.0 mol dm-3 sulphuric acid, H2SO4 and 2.0 mol dm-3 ammonia, NH3
solution, phenolphthalein.
Procedure:
I. To determine the volume of acid for neutralization
Figure 9.1
99
1. Use the microburette to transfer 2.0 cm3 of ammonia solution to a conical flask.
Use a propette to add one or two drops of phenolphthalein.
2. Push the plastic microstand into well D1 of the comboplate. Orient the pairs of
arms on the central stem of the microstand so that one arm of each pair is directly
above the conical flask.
3. Fill a clean microburette with sulphuric acid and record the initial burette reading.
4. Titrate carefully by slowly adding the acid into the conical flask and stirring well
with a microspatula.
5. Continue adding the acid until the indicator just turns from pink to colourless.
Record the final burette reading.
6. Determine the volume of acid used to neutralize 2.0 cm3 of the base. (let the
volume be V cm3).
II. Preparation of the salt
Figure 9.2
1. Use the microburette to transfer 2.0 cm3 of the same ammonia solution into a 10
cm3 conical flask. Do not add any indicator.
2. From the burette, add exactly V cm3 of sulphuric acid to the ammonia solution
and stir well.
3. Pour the contents of the conical flask into a microcrucible.
4. Gently heat the solution with a microburner to evaporate most of the water to
produce a saturated solution.
5. Stop the heating and cool the hot saturated salt solution in order for crystallization
to occur.
6. Filter to obtain the ammonium sulphate crystals and dry it using 2 pieces of filter
paper.
100
* If the salts have crystallized in the microcrucible, there is no need to filter the
solution. Just scoop out the crystals using a microspatula onto a piece of filter paper
and dry them.
Conclusions:
Questions:
1. Write a balanced equation for the reaction between NH3 and H2SO4.
2. Calculate the theoretical yield of ammonium sulphate crystals you can obtain
based on your preparation.
3. The mass of ammonium sulphate, (NH4)2SO4 crystals obtained from your
experiment will be less than the theoretical value.
References:
101

Chapter 2 Experiment

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Chapter 2 Experiment

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Microscale Chemistry

School of Chemical Sciences

Prepared under UNESCO Contract No: 4500049693

THE STRUCTURE OF THE ATOM

A. DIFFUSION OF PARTICLES IN SOLIDS, LIQUIDS AND GASES

CHEMICAL FORMULAE AND EQUATIONS

A. DETERMINING THE EMPIRICAL FORMULA OF COPPER(II) 15

B. CONSTRUCTING BALANCED CHEMICAL EQUATIONS

PERIODIC TABLE OF ELEMENTS

A. INVESTIGATING THE CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GROUP 17

B. STUDYING THE PROPERTIES OF OXIDES OF THE ELEMENTS IN

A. PREPARATION OF IONIC COMPOUNDS

B. COMPARING THE PROPERTIES OF IONIC AND COVALENT COMPOUNDS

A.CLASSIFYING CHEMICALS INTO ELECTROLYTES AND

B. ELECTROLYSIS OF MOLTEN COMPOUNDS 42

C. INVESTIGATING THE ELECTROLYSIS OF AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS

F.PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY FROM CHEMICAL 51

G.PRODUCTION OF ELECTRICITY FROM CHEMICAL REACTIONS 53

H. CONSTRUCTING THE ELECTROCHEMICAL SERIES 55

A. INVESTIGATING THE ROLE OF WATER IN SHOWING 57

B. STUDYING THE CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF ACIDS

C. STUDYING THE CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF BASES

D. MEASURING THE pH OF SOLUTIONS USED IN DAILY LIFE ** 67

E. DETERMINING THE END POINT OF THE TITRATION BETWEEN 69

A. SOLUBILITY OF NITRATE, SULPHATE, CARBONATE AND 73

B. PREPARATION OF SOLUBLE SALTS BY MIXING ACIDS WITH BASES

D. PREPARATION OF INSOLUBLE SALTS BY CARRYING OUT A

E.CONSTRUCTING THE IONIC EQUATION FOR THE 82

F. CARRYING OUT CHEMICAL TESTS TO IDENTIFY GASES

G. STUDYING THE EFFECT OF HEAT ON CARBONATE AND NITRATE SALTS

H. TESTING FOR THE PRESENCE OF ANIONS IN AQUEOUS SOLUTION

MANUFACTURED SUBSTANCES IN INDUSTRY

A. PREPARATION OF AMMONIUM SULPHATE FERTILIZER

** Experiments from the UNESCO Advanced Teaching and Learning Packages on

In Malaysia, Chemistry is offered to students at the upper secondary level beginning

Central to the teaching-learning approach in the chemistry curriculum is practical work

Microscale chemistry is an approach to performing chemistry experiments which

Prof. Tan Sri Dato’ Dzulkifli Abdul Razak

We believe that the Malaysian adaptation of Microchemistry Experiments contributes to

Academician Alexandre Pokrovsky

We would like to especially acknowledge the assistance of Academician Alexandre

Prof. Norita Mohamed (mnorita@usm.my)

Assoc. Prof. Zurida Hj Ismail (zurida@usm.my)

UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA

Big sample vial and lid

A. Investigating the effect of the temperature of water on the solubility of sugar

Objective: To investigate the effect of the temperature of water on the solubility of

Apparatus: 10 cm3 measuring cylinder, 10 cm3 beakers, electronic balance, microburner,

Materials: Sugar and water.

Data and Observations:

1. State the hypothesis for the experiment.

3. Plot a graph of the mass of sugar dissolved against temperature.

A. Diffusion of particles in solids, liquids and gases

Objective: To investigate the diffusion of particles in a gas, a liquid and a solid.

Materials: Liquid bromine, Br2, 1 mol dm-3 potassium manganate(VII), KMnO4

1. Fill ¾ of a small sample vial with water.

III. Diffusion of solids

Data and Observations:

2. Bell, B. & Bradley, J.D. (2002). Advanced learning packages, Microchemistry

A. Determining the empirical formula of copper(II) oxide

Objective: To determine the empirical formula of copper(II) oxide

Apparatus: Comboplate, 2 cm3 syringes, glass tube (6 cm x 4 mm), lid 1, lid 2,

1. Use a microspatula to add about 0.5 to 1 g of granulated zinc to well F1.

Caution: A mixture of hydrogen and air will explode when lighted.