Because the equilibrium is not as simple chemically as it appears visually, we will not be able to measure the value of the equilibrium constant for the oversimplified reaction that we will develop. However, your understanding of the qualitative aspects of equilibrium should be greatly increased by your study of this system. Focus Questions Write the simplest chemical equation consistent with all of your observations in the qualitative experiments. Write a narrative explanation of the results of each qualitative experiment in terms of the equation you wrote in question 1. Safety Safety goggles should be worn at all times in the laboratory.
Ethanol is flammable, so keep it away from open flames.
In the event of skin contact, flush with water for at least 5 minutes. Experimental Record your observations and data in your notebook. Weigh 0.5 mmole of cobalt chloride hexahydrate to at least 3 decimal places, and transfer to a 50-mL Erlenmeyer flask. Add exactly 10 mL of absolute ethanol and swirl until the salt has completely dissolved. Obtain a stopper for the flask.