Colligative Properties Inquiry Investigation

Grade Level/Subject Chemistry grades 10 -12

Unit This is a culminating activity that should be attempted after teaching colligative properties, Unit 5 or 6 Enduring Understanding I. Matter is classified by its chemical and physical properties II. Molarity = moles of solute/L of solution III. [] refers to molar concentration IV. Techniques for experimentation involve the identification and proper use of chemicals and the description of equipment V. Colligative properties are independent of the solute VI. Colligative properties are dependent on the solute concentration

SOL Standards CH.1, CH. 5

Title Colligative Properties Inquiry Lab (this is an excellent assignment for over a long weekend or holiday)

Lesson Objective I. Students will prepare molar solutions II. Students will quantify colligative properties III. Students will devise tests and measurements that will demonstrate differences (if any) between ionic and covalent solution colligative properties IV. Students will demonstrate a scientific principle at home

Inquiry Level 3

Materials Required None, students may ask to borrow a thermometer or temperature probe, they are not necessary for student success

Colligative Properties Inquiry Investigation

After reviewing your colligative property notes and reading the following: According to Wikipedia, colligative properties are properties of solutions that depend upon the ratio of the number of solute particles to the number of solvent molecules in a solution. They are independent of the nature of the solute particles, and are due essentially to the dilution of the solvent by the solute.

The word colligative is derived from the Latin colligatus meaning bound together, since these properties are bound together by the fact that they all depend on the number of solute particles and not on the type of chemical species present.

Colligative properties include: 1. Relative lowering of vapor pressure 2. Elevation of boiling point 3. Depression of freezing point

Do colligative properties differ between ionic and covalent solutions? You are to plan, record and perform an investigation to demonstrate at least two colligative properties for at least two solutions. This investigation is to be performed at home. Please photograph or video as much of the experiment as possible. All videos and photos sent to me will be posted on classroom blog for other classmates to see. Be prepared to discuss your findings in class.

Remember to perform multiple trials, think outside the box, problem solve, and write down everything you do and why in your laboratory books.

Safety Please be safe. Remember stoves are hot, hot liquids are hot and cold liquids are cold.

The only letter in the English alphabet not used on the periodic table is J.