The objective of this experiment is to explore the need for accuracy and precision when working in the laboratory. The topic is addressed by determining the densities of cans of soda. Next they try to verify that regular Coke is denser than diet Coke by quantitatively determining densities using a procedure of their own design based on Archimedes Principle. This experience is very effective in emphasizing the true meaning of significant figures. The experiment requires one three-hour lab, and fits best early in the first semester of a General Chemistry or Liberal Arts Chemistry laboratory course.
Students work in groups of four, and emphasis is placed on observation and group collaboration.
The purpose of this experiment is to investigate common types of chemical reactions. In the first section of the module, students test the conductivity of a variety of solutions to determine which contain an appreciable concentration of ions. Students run a wide variety of reactions and learn to look for evidence that a reaction has occurred.