MICROSCALE TECHNIQUES
TEACHER NOTES
Rationale:
The purpose of these experiments using microscale synthesis kits and related instruments
is to provide the student with the opportunity to synthesize and analyze substances safely and
economically.
Central Questions:
1. How are microscale kits used for synthesis and distillation?
2. How is a titration done using microscale methods?
3. What are the advantages of using microscale methods?
a. Less reactant is used, reducing the cost of materials.
b. Less hazardous waste is produced.
c. Kits are more affordable and easier to maintain.
General Objective:
The student will demonstrate the ability to set up, use and explain the advantages of using
microscale instruments/techniques.
Specific Objectives:
Skills:
The student will:
1. set up Kontes Microscale Kits for synthesis or distillation.
2. use microscale materials to titrate solutions to find the concentration of a
chemical.
Understandings:
The student will:
1. explain how substances are synthesized.
2. explain how and why mixtures are separated by distillation.
3. explain how to determine concentration from titration data.
4. discuss the advantages of using microscale methods.
Evaluation:
The student will:
1. synthesize a substance as instructed in a given experiment.
2. separate components from a mixture by distillation or column chromatography.
3. titrate an unknown solution for concentration.
4. state the reasons for using microscale methods.
Last updated 8-01