Experiment: Preparing a soluble salt

Name Jody Class 9.3

Coursework: LO 1 & LO 4

Assessment Criteria
4.3g Prepare a pure dry sample of a soluble salt from different starting substances.

Background information
Soluble salts can be prepared by various methods. In this experiment you will be preparing
and collecting a pure dry sample of hydrated copper (II) sulfate crystals by adding a suitable
insoluble solid reagent to an acid.

Date ________16th of March 2024 ______________________________

Title
"Preparation of Pure Copper (II) Sulfate Crystals from Solid Reagents"

Aim
To prepare a pure dry sample of hydrated copper (II) sulfate crystals by reacting solid
reagents with sulfuric acid and performing subsequent filtration and crystallization processes.

Apparatus and Materials

Acid:  Sulfuric acid (H2SO4)

Solid reagent: Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) or zinc (Zn)

Distilled water
Filter paper
Funnel
Beaker
Evaporating dish
Bunsen burner
Tripod Stand
Heat-resistant mat
Balance
Spatula
Stirring rod
Safety goggles
Gloves
10 marks

Consult safety data sheets for any chemical substances used before you start the experiment.

Experiment Sheet 1 of 11
Experiment Sheet 2 of 11
Procedure
Part 1: Preparing the salt solution.
1. Add 20 cm3 of dilute acid to a small beaker.
2. Add small portions of solid reagent to the beaker and stir gently with a glass rod.
3. Keep adding the reagent until some of it remains undissolved.
4. Heat the beaker with a gentle blue flame and continue stirring with the glass rod.
5. If the solid dissolves completely, keep on adding the solid reagent until some undissolved
solid remains.
6. Allow the beaker to cool while you set up Part 2.

Part 2: Removing the excess solid reagent.

7. Place a filter funnel in the neck of a conical flask.
8. Fold a filter paper to fit the filter funnel and put it in the funnel.
9. Gently swirl the contents of the beaker and then pour the mixture slowly into the filter
paper in the funnel.

Part 3: Crystallisation of the salt.

10. Pour the filtrate into an evaporating dish and place it on a beaker half filled with water.
11. Bring the water bath to a boil.
12. When most of the solution evaporates, dip a glass rod momentarily in the solution. If on
cooling, crystals form on the glass rod, switch off the Bunsen burner. Allow time for the
crystals to form.

Diagrams
Draw labelled diagrams for each stage of this experiment.
10 marks

Precautions
 List precautions and explain why they were taken when:
i. Preparing the salt solution,
1. Wear safety goggles and gloves: Sulfuric acid is corrosive and
can cause severe burns if it comes into contact with skin or
eyes.
2. Add acid to water, not water to acid: When diluting acids,
always add the acid to the water slowly to prevent splashes
and potential chemical reactions that could generate heat or
release dangerous fumes.
3. Handle the solid reagent with care: Some solid reagents may
be irritants or toxic. Use proper handling techniques and avoid
inhaling dust or direct skin contact.
4. Heat gently: Use a gentle blue flame when heating the solution
to avoid boiling over or splashing of the acid solution.

Experiment Sheet 3 of 11
 ii. conducting filtration.
1. Use a filter funnel and flask: A filter funnel
ensures proper filtration, and a conical
flask provides stability and containment of
the filtered solution.

2. Avoid overfilling the funnel: Overfilling the

funnel can lead to spillage or clogging of
the filter paper, affecting the filtration
process.
3. Pour slowly: Pour the mixture slowly onto
the filter paper to prevent splashing or
overflowing.
5. Avoid inhaling fumes: Some reactions may produce fumes or
gases. Conduct the filtration in a well-ventilated area or under a
fume hood to minimize exposure to harmful fumes.
iii. obtaining the crystals.
1. Allow the solution to cool slowly: Rapid cooling may result in the formation of
small or impure crystals. Allowing the solution to cool slowly promotes the
growth of larger, purer crystals.

2. Avoid agitation: Agitating the solution during cooling can disrupt crystal
formation. Minimize disturbances to allow crystals to form undisturbed.

3. Monitor the formation of crystals: Check periodically for crystal formation by

dipping a glass rod into the solution. This helps determine the optimal time to
stop heating and allow crystallization to proceed.

 List any other precautions.

1. Clean equipment: Ensure all glassware and
equipment are clean and dry before use to
prevent contamination of the experiment.
2. Follow standard laboratory safety
procedures: This includes working in a well-
ventilated area, avoiding ingestion or
inhalation of chemicals, and knowing the
location of safety equipment such as
eyewash stations and fire extinguishers.

Safety considerations
Consult safety data sheets for the chemicals used to complete the table below:

Chemical Hazard Safety precaution

Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) Corrosive; Causes severe 1. Wear safety goggles,
skin burns and eye damage; gloves, and protective

Experiment Sheet 4 of 11
 Harmful if inhaled or clothing to prevent skin and
swallowed; Causes eye contact. 2. Handle and
respiratory tract irritation pour acid in a well-ventilated
area or under a fume hood
to minimize inhalation of
fumes. 3. Add acid to water
slowly, not water to acid, to
avoid splashes and potential
exothermic reactions. 4. In
case of skin contact,
immediately flush affected
areas with water and seek
medical attention. 5. In case
of eye contact, immediately
flush eyes with water for at
least 15 minutes and seek
medical attention.
Zinc (Zn) Harmful if swallowed; May 1. Avoid ingestion and
cause respiratory irritation; inhalation of zinc dust or
May cause skin and eye fumes. 2. Wear safety
irritation goggles and gloves when
handling zinc to prevent skin
and eye irritation. 3. Handle
zinc in a well-ventilated area
to minimize inhalation of
fumes. 4. In case of skin
contact, wash affected area
with soap and water. In case
of eye contact, rinse eyes
with water for several
minutes. Seek medical
attention if irritation persists.
5. Avoid contact with acids,
as zinc can react violently
with some acids, producing
flammable hydrogen gas.

List safety considerations taken when evaporating and crystallising copper (II) sulfate solution.

1.Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Experiment Sheet 5 of 11
Wear safety goggles to protect eyes from splashes or chemical exposure.
Wear gloves to prevent skin contact with the solution, which can cause irritation.

2.Ventilation:
Perform the evaporation and crystallization steps in a well-ventilated area or under a fume
hood to prevent inhalation of any fumes or vapors generated during the process.

3.Heat Source:
Use a Bunsen burner or other appropriate heat source to evaporate the solution. Ensure proper
handling of the heat source to avoid burns or accidents.
Keep flammable materials away from the heat source to prevent fire hazards.

4.Glassware Handling:
Handle glassware with care to avoid breakage or injury. Use heat-resistant glassware suitable
for the experiment.
Use appropriate tools, such as tongs or heat-resistant gloves, when handling hot glassware.

5.Controlled Evaporation:
Evaporate the solution slowly and carefully to prevent splattering or boiling over, which can
cause burns.
Monitor the evaporation process closely to prevent overheating and ensure the solution is
evaporating at a controlled rate.

6.Crystal Formation:
Avoid direct contact with the hot evaporating dish or solution to prevent burns.
Allow the solution to cool slowly to promote the formation of large, well-defined crystals. Rapid
cooling may result in the formation of small or impure crystals.

7.Handling Crystals:
Use caution when handling the evaporating dish containing the crystals to avoid breakage or
spills.
Allow the crystals to cool completely before handling to prevent burns.

8.Emergency Preparedness:
Be familiar with the location and use of safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, eyewash
stations, and emergency showers.
Know the proper procedures for handling chemical spills, burns, or other emergencies.
10 marks
Observations
Describe the observations noted during the different stages of the experiment:

Experiment Sheet 6 of 11
 when preparing the salt solution.
1. Addition of dilute acid: The addition of dilute acid to water may generate heat due to the
exothermic nature of the dissolution process. Effervescence may occur if the acid is
reactive with water.
2. Addition of solid reagent: Initially, the solid reagent may appear as a powder or
granules. As it is added to the acid solution, it may dissolve gradually, accompanied by
a change in the color or appearance of the solution.
3. Stirring: Stirring the mixture ensures uniform distribution of the reagent and aids in
dissolving it. Any undissolved solid may settle at the bottom of the beaker.
 during filtration.
1. Addition of dilute acid: The addition of dilute acid to water may generate heat due
to the exothermic nature of the dissolution process. Effervescence may occur if the
acid is reactive with water.
2. Addition of solid reagent: Initially, the solid reagent may appear as a powder or
granules. As it is added to the acid solution, it may dissolve gradually, accompanied by a
change in the color or appearance of the solution.
3. Stirring: Stirring the mixture ensures uniform distribution of the reagent and aids in
dissolving it. Any undissolved solid may settle at the bottom of the beaker.

 during evaporation and crystallization.

1. Evaporation: As the solution is heated, water evaporates, leading to a decrease
in volume. Initially, bubbles may be observed due to the release of dissolved gases.
The solution may become more concentrated and may change color, depending on
the solutes present.
2.Crystallization: Initially, as the solution cools, no visible changes may be
observed. However, as the temperature decreases further, crystals may start
forming on the solution's surface or on the evaporating dish's walls. These crystals
may appear as small, shiny, or translucent structures. If the solution becomes
supersaturated, rapid crystal growth may occur.
3. Appearance of crystals: The crystals formed may vary in size, shape, and color,
depending on the purity and conditions of crystallization. Well-formed, regular
crystals indicate successful crystallization, while irregular or discolored crystals may
suggest impurities or improper conditions.
4. End point of evaporation: The evaporation process is complete when most of the
solvent has evaporated, leaving behind a concentrated solution from which crystals
can form. At this point, the Bunsen burner can be switched off, and the solution is
left to cool further for crystallization to continue.
20 marks

Experiment Sheet 7 of 11
Discussion and Conclusion
 Name the type of reaction taking place to prepare the salt.
 Write a word equation for the reaction of the solid reagent and acid.
 Write a balanced equation, including state symbols, for this reaction.
 Discuss the method used to prepare copper (II) sulfate crystals. In your discussion
explain why excess solid reagent is used and why filtration was carried out.
 Give two uses of copper (II) sulfate in everyday life.

Evaluation
 Identify any sources of error and discuss how they can be reduced/eliminated.
 Describe how copper (II) sulfate can be prepared using other different starting materials.
 Predict whether copper (II) sulfate can be prepared by adding copper metal to the acid
used in this experiment. Explain your answer.
20 marks
Discussion and Conclusion:

Type of reaction: The reaction taking place to prepare the salt is a double displacement
reaction, where the cations and anions of the reactants exchange partners to form new
compounds.

Word equation: The reaction between the solid reagent (e.g., calcium carbonate) and acid
(e.g., sulfuric acid) can be represented by the following word equation:
Calcium carbonate + Sulfuric acid -> Calcium sulfate + Carbon dioxide + Water

Balanced equation: The balanced chemical equation for the reaction between calcium
carbonate and sulfuric acid is:
CaCO3(s) + H2SO4(aq) -> CaSO4(s) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)

Method for preparing copper (II) sulfate crystals: The method involves adding a solid
reagent (such as calcium carbonate or zinc) to sulfuric acid to precipitate copper (II)
sulfate. Excess solid reagent is used to ensure complete reaction and to drive the
reaction to completion. Filtration is carried out to separate the insoluble solid reagent
from the solution containing the copper (II) sulfate.

Reasons for using excess solid reagent and filtration:

Excess solid reagent: Ensures complete reaction by providing more than enough reactant.
It also helps drive the reaction to completion by Le Chatelier's principle. Any excess
solid reagent can be easily separated through filtration, ensuring that all copper (II)
ions have reacted to form the desired product.
Filtration: Removes the insoluble solid reagent from the solution, allowing for the isolation
of the pure copper (II) sulfate solution. This helps in obtaining a pure product without
any contamination from the excess solid reagent.
Two uses of copper (II) sulfate in everyday life:

Experiment Sheet 8 of 11
 As a pesticide/fungicide: Copper (II) sulfate is used in agriculture to control pests and
fungal diseases on crops.
As an algicide: It is used in swimming pools to control algae growth and maintain water
quality.
Evaluation:

Sources of error and their reduction/elimination:

Incomplete reaction: Ensure thorough mixing and sufficient reaction time to allow for
complete reaction.
Loss of product during filtration: Use proper filtration techniques and equipment to
minimize product loss.
Impurities in the final product: Use high-quality reagents and ensure proper purification
steps to obtain a pure product.
Preparation of copper (II) sulfate using other starting materials: Copper (II) sulfate can
also be prepared by reacting copper oxide or copper carbonate with sulfuric acid.

Prediction regarding the addition of copper metal to the acid: Copper metal will not react
with sulfuric acid to produce copper (II) sulfate directly. This is because copper is less
reactive than hydrogen and cannot displace hydrogen from sulfuric acid. Therefore,
copper metal does not react with sulfuric acid under normal conditions to produce
copper (II) sulfate.

Maximum Obtained
Marking Scheme
Mark Mark

Date, Title, Aim & Apparatus and Materials 10

 Date when experiment was  The date when experiment  The date when experiment
carried out is missing. was conducted in the lab. was conducted in the lab.
 Title of the experiment is  The title of the experiment.  A clear title of the
missing.  Only part of the aim of the experiment.
 Only part of the aim of the experiment is written.  A clear and concise aim of the
experiment is written.  Lists some of the chemicals experiment.
 Lists few or none of the and equipment used during  Lists all chemicals and
chemicals or equipment used the experiment. apparatus used during the
during the experiment. experiment.

(0 - 3 marks) (4 - 6 marks) (7 - 10 marks)

Diagram/s 10

 Poor diagrams are drawn  Draws neat, labelled  Draws neat and labelled
which are not neat or diagrams. Not all diagrams diagrams of all steps in the
completely labelled. Not all may be included with some procedure.
diagrams are presented. missing labels.

(0 - 3 marks) (4 - 6 marks) (7 - 10 marks)

Precautions & Safety considerations 10

 Lists few of the precautions  Lists most of the precautions  Lists all precautions and

Experiment Sheet 9 of 11
 taken during the experiment. without explaining why such explain why such precautions
 Identify few hazards in the precautions are taken. are taken during the
experiment without  Identifies some of the main experiment.
suggesting methods of hazards in the experiment  Identifies the main hazards in
reducing the risk of harm. and suggest methods of the experiment and suggest
reducing the risk of harm. methods of reducing the risk
of harm.

(0 - 3 marks) (4 - 6 marks) (7 - 10 marks)

Results and Observations 20

 Records only some of the  Records most of the  Records all observations
observations noted during the observations noted during the noted in the experiment in
experiment. experiment but observations detail and organises them in
are not clearly organised. a clear manner e.g. in a
paragraph or in a table
format

(0 - 6 marks) (7 - 12 marks) (13 - 20 marks)

Experiment Sheet 10 of 11
Discussion and Conclusion & Evaluation 20

 Presents an incomplete  Identifies trends or patterns in  Identifies trends or patterns in

analysis/interpretation of observations and supports observations and supports
observations with many them with a satisfactory them with a complete and
errors. analysis/ interpretation of correct analysis/
 Draws a poor conclusion that data with some errors. interpretation of data.
is based on the evidence  Draws a satisfactory  Draws a detailed conclusion
obtained in the experiment conclusion that is based on that is based on the evidence
and poorly relates it to the evidence obtained in the obtained in the experiment
scientific knowledge, laws and experiment and relates it to and relates it to scientific
theory. scientific knowledge, laws and knowledge, laws and theory.
 Identifies few of the theory.  Identifies experimental errors
experimental errors but does  Identifies some of the or anomalous observations
not give an explanation of experimental errors or and gives an adequate
why such errors occurred. anomalous observations and explanation why such errors
 Identifies few limitations of gives a partial explanation are observed.
the experiment but does not why such errors are observed.  Discusses the limitations and
discuss ways of improving  Discusses limitations of the weaknesses of the experiment
experiment. experiment and suggests and suggests ways of
some ways of improving the improving experimental setup
experiment setup and/or and/or results.
results.

(0 - 6 marks) (7 - 12 marks) (13 - 20 marks)

Conducting the experiment 30

 Handles some of the  Handles most of the  Handles apparatus and

apparatus and chemicals apparatus and chemicals chemicals carefully, correctly,
correctly and safely with correctly and safely. safely and skilfully.
guidance.  Uses equipment appropriate  Uses equipment appropriate
 Uses inappropriate for the task, makes most of for the task, makes
equipment for the task, the observations and records systematic observations and
making few observations and limited data. records data in an orderly
recorded data is not well  Works with others in a manner. Works in an
organised. cooperative manner most of organised and diligent
 Works with others but is not the time. manner.
always co-operative.  Makes use of the appropriate  Works in a team and is
 Fails to make use of the lab attire to ensure personal respectful of others.
appropriate lab attire to safety most of the time.  Makes use of the appropriate
ensure personal safety.  Cleans the apparatus after lab attire to ensure personal
 Does not clean the apparatus being reminded but the safety.
and leaves the working working area is not so tidy.  Cleans the apparatus and
station in a disorganised bench after the experiment.
manner

(0 - 9 marks) (10 - 18 marks) (19 - 30 marks)

Total Mark

MQF level obtained

(MQF 1: 0 – 30 marks, MQF 2: 31 – 60 marks, MQF 3: 61 – 100 marks)

Comments
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Experiment Sheet 11 of 11