Experiment: "Enthalpy of Reaction Using Calorimetry"
Objective:To determine the enthalpy change (ΔH) of a chemical reaction by measuring the heat released or absorbed during the reaction using calorimetry.
Materials:
- Calorimeter (insulated container)
- Thermometer
- Stirring rod
- Graduated cylinder
- Beaker
- Chemicals (e.g., sodium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid)
- Ice (for control experiment)
Procedure:
- Calibrate the calorimeter by adding known amount of hot water and measuring the temperature change (ΔT). Calculate the heat capacity (C) of the calorimeter using the formula: C = (mass of water + mass of calorimeter) x ΔT
- Fill the calorimeter with a known mass of water and measure the initial temperature (T1).
- In another beaker, dissolve the reactants (e.g., sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid) in water.
- Quickly add the reactants to the calorimeter and stir the mixture.
- Record the highest temperature reached (T2) during the reaction.
- Calculate the heat released or absorbed by the reaction using the formula: Q = C x ΔT.
- Repeat the experiment with an equal mass of reactants but different concentrations to observe the effect of concentration on the enthalpy change.
- Perform a control experiment by adding ice instead of reactants to determine the heat capacity of the calorimeter and account for any heat loss from the system.
Significance:This experiment showcases the principles of chemical thermodynamics and energy. It demonstrates how heat released or absorbed during a chemical reaction can be measured and used to determine the enthalpy change (ΔH) of the reaction. The enthalpy change provides valuable information about the energy changes and stability of chemical compounds, which is crucial in understanding various chemical processes and applications. This experiment also highlights the importance of calorimetry as a technique for measuring heat flow and energy changes in chemical reactions.