The purposes of this laboratory are the
following:
1. to make more
meaningful the concepts of Physical Chemistry discussed in your textbook.
2. to introduce
you to the basic equipment, techniques, and methods of data analysis involved
in the physico-chemical investigations of systems.
As you began the laboratory course,
read carefully the chapters on data analysis and safety. It is important that you know how to treat
raw data in order to get the desired results.
Ordinarily the physical chemistry laboratory is a safe place to work,
but you must maintain a constant awareness of the possible hazards and make
every effort to protect yourself and your co-workers.
Before performing any experiment, be
sure to read the directions carefully and read supplementary material from your
textbook and other sources. Become
familiar with the mathematical calculations which you will be using. Record the values of any constants which you
may need.
Before coming to the laboratory,
prepare your notebook. Write a brief
summary of the purpose and objectives of the experiment. Outline the experimental procedure you are to
follow. Write chemical equations for any
reactions involved and mathematical equations.
Also include any aids that will help you in recording your data in an
orderly fashion.
At the conclusion of the experiment
include one sample calculation of each type.
Calculate an average value and standard deviation for the results. Finally, present a discussion of possible
errors and how each would influence the results.
You will be graded on accuracy and
precision of results and on understanding of the phenomena and procedure.