CHEM 321L
Analytical Chemistry Laboratory
SYLLABUS
Dr. DiLella
Spring 2009
DESCRIPTION
Chem 321L is a one-credit laboratory course covering the procedures for classical
volumetric, gravimetric, electrochemical, chromatographic and spectroscopic analyses. Students
learn how to make accurate and precise measurements. Particular attention is given to data
analysis and evaluation of data. Students are introduced to, and are expected to use, advanced
data handling and error treatment methods.
TEXT
The lab manual is available at the bookstore. (required)
CLASS HOURS
Tu 9:35 - 12:25
OFFICE HOURS
MWF 10-11, 3-4
T 1-2, or by appointment
Byrd Center 315
304-876-5430
ddilella@shepherd.edu
web page: http://WEBPAGES.SHEPHERD.EDU/DDILELLA/
PREREQUISITES
CHEM 321 should be taken concurrently. Computer skills are not a prerequisite but
students who do not know how to do basic computer spreadsheet operations should see the
instructor as soon as possible to get special tutoring in these skills. With the aid of a computer
spreadsheet program, the time required to do the lab reports will be significantly reduced.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Students are expected to attend all laboratory sessions. Students must get their lab
notebooks signed during each period. Makeup labs will not be administered without a valid written
excuse. Labs that are missed with a valid excuse may be made up at a time determined by the
instructor. Students may NEVER work in a lab without permission of the instructor.
LAB NOTEBOOK
All data should be entered in a bound lab notebook. Before each lab the student should
outline the work that will be done. The outline should include plans for preparing all solutions and
a plan for the order in which the parts of the experiment will be performed. Notebook entries
should be complete and neat. Your outline will be graded for each lab. Your notebook should be
signed by the instructor in each lab period.
REPORTS
Reports are due one week after the completion of the experimental work. 2 points will be
deducted from the score for every day that the report is late. The use of computer spreadsheets
for data tabulation, analysis and creation of graphs is strongly recommended. A properly
annotated printout of a spreadsheet is sufficient for the lab report.
1
CHEM 321L
Analytical Chemistry Laboratory
SYLLABUS
Dr. DiLella
Spring 2009
Reports should include the following:
The first page should include your name, the title and number of the experiment, the name
of your partner if applicable, and the dates on which the experiment was performed and
submitted.
ALL data collected must be recorded in your notebook
and must be included in the report.
Tables
All data should appear in tables.
All tables should include a title.
All columns in tables should include headings.
All table entries should have units unless the quantity is unit-less
Estimated uncertainties should be given for all measured quantities.
Plots
All plots should have titles.
The axes on plots should be labeled and the dimensions (units) of all quantities should be
indicated.
All plots should be computer generated. Plots should be constructed so that they can be
read to the maximum possible precision. Adjust the x and y ranges so that they are slightly larger
than those needed to contain all of the data points.
Calculations
A sample calculation showing every step used to treat the raw data should be presented.
It is neither necessary nor desirable to show repeated examples of the same basic calculation.
Describe the purpose of each step and indicate clearly the source of every quantity which you use
in the calculation. Appropriate units should be used throughout the calculation. The sample
calculations can be included on the spreadsheet printout. Be sure that purpose of each is clearly
indicated.
Uncertainties
For every measurement include an experimental uncertainty. The best time to determine
the uncertainties is while you are doing the experiment. For example, if you measure a 10 mL
volume that you believe to be accurate to 0.01 mL you record the measurement in your notebook
as 10.00 ± 0.01 mL. Alternately, indicate in your notebook the type of volumetric glassware used
so that you can look up the uncertainty later. Tolerances for volumetric glassware are tabulated in
many textbooks and are usually posted in the lab.
For most of the experiments in this course multiple determinations will be made. The
proper procedure in these cases is to calculate the standard deviation and 95 % confidence
interval.
Deductions will be taken as follows
2
CHEM 321L
Analytical Chemistry Laboratory
SYLLABUS
Dr. DiLella
Spring 2009
missing or improper units - 5 pts
missing data - 5 pts
missing sample calculations - 5 pts
GRADING
The final grades are based on the lab reports and on the notebook. There are no tests or
quizzes. Reports are graded on a scale from 0 to 100 and all have equal weight. The score on a
report depends on the accuracy of your determination of the unknown and the clarity and
completeness of the report. Typically the unknown is worth 20% of the grade but in a few cases,
it is worth more. The instructor will give details as the experiments are done.
Grading for Course
reports
notebook
90%
10%
FINAL GRADE
The final grade will be based on the following scale
A
B
C
D
90 %
80 %
70 %
60 %
to 100 %
to 89+ %
to 79+ %
to 69+ %
SAFETY
The experiments have been designed with safety as a major consideration. However, the
equipment and procedures will be unfamiliar to you and mistakes can and will happen. Be sure
that you understand the hazards associated with the equipment and reagents before starting an
experiment. Do not be afraid to ask questions. SAFETY GOGGLES OR GLASSES MUST BE
WORN AT ALL TIMES. STUDENTS MAY NEVER WORK ALONE IN A LAB.
3