GISAT 112
SOLUBILITIES: AN INVESTIGATION
(adapted from Laboratory Manual, Chemistry in Context, 2nd Edition, 1997.)
Introduction
This laboratory exercise is a departure from the usual experiment. It is an attempt to
simulate the kind of problem solving that takes place in a scientific laboratory. There are
no instructions, procedures, or data sheets. There is simply a problem to solve, which
requires reasoning skills and the application of knowledge already acquired.
A team will consist of two students. You and your laboratory partner must come up with
a solution to the problem and be prepared to compare your method and results to those of
other teams in the class.
The Problem
Determine the relative solubilities of the following compounds in water at room
temperature: calcium sulfate (CaSO4), potassium aluminum sulfate (KAl(SO4)2),
potassium nitrate (KNO3), ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), and sodium chloride (NaCl).
Express their solubilities in ranked order from most soluble to least soluble.
All of these compounds are likely to be found in drinking water supplies since they occur
naturally in rocks and soil or are used as fertilizers.
In the interest of cost and convenience, you are provided with approximately 2 grams of
each compound. (You will not be supplied with any more so think carefully about how
you will use it!) Once you’ve decided on a procedure, record it and any observations you
make while trying to solve this problem. Your grade will depend on three things:
1. A defensible answer to the problem
2. The quality of the procedure you develop
3. The care with which you carry out the investigation
Materials and Equipment
Each lab table will have an analytical balance. In addition, a variety of materials and
equipment will be available upon request. The lab assistants and instructors are willing
to bring you graduated cylinders, beakers, burets, glass stir rods, spatulas, test tubes,
eyedroppers, and more. If you have questions about equipment, don’t hesitate to ask.
Reporting Your Results
On a single sheet of paper, record your ranking of the salts from most soluble to least
soluble. Carefully describe your procedure and any observations you’ve made while
carrying it out. If time allows, your instructor will facilitate a discussion of the activity.