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
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
Enduring Understanding
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.
II.
III.
IV.
Students will prepare molar solutions
Students will quantify colligative properties
Students will devise tests and measurements that will demonstrate
differences (if any) between ionic and covalent solution colligative
properties
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.