Quantities and Reactions : Synthesis

Investigate a type of synthesis reaction, the formation of magnesium oxide, by analyzing a series of equivalent reactions and determining the heat of combustion for magnesium.

Lab Summary:

Students will use a temperature sensor to find the heat of reaction and indirectly determine the heat of combustion for a synthesis reaction.

Download Free Lab  (PDF, 616 KB)

(student version)

Method:

Use a Temperature Sensor to determine the characteristics of synthesis (combination) reactions.

Here's What You Need:

Probeware

• PASPORT Temperature Sensor (PS-2125)
• Xplorer GLX Graphing Datalogger (PS-2002)
  (or alternate PASPORT interface -- see other options)

Other Materials

• Small Tripod Base & Rod (SE-9451)
• Buret Clamp (SE-9446)
• Balance (SE-8756A)
• Beaker, 250-mL
• Graduated cylinder, 100-mL
• Foam cup
• Stirring rod
• Slit stopper
• Weighing paper
• 1.0 M hydrochloric acid, HCl
• Magnesium oxide, MgO
• Magnesium ribbon, Mg

Lab Manual:

This activity is included in Explorations in Chemistry (PS-2808), complete with Teacher Information pages, student instructions and handouts, and sample data for a total of 25 probeware-based labs. For your convenience, we offer bundles which provide the probeware necessary for the activities in the manual. For more information on these resources and bundles, click here.