An Investigation of Electrolyte Solutions Using a Simple Conductivity Apparatus

TCE

The Chemical Educator

ISSN: 1430-4171 (electronic version)

Table of Contents

Abstract Volume 4 Issue 5 (1999) pp 171-172

An Investigation of Electrolyte Solutions Using a Simple Conductivity Apparatus

Amy Coe and Paul G. Jasien*

Department of Chemistry, California State University, San Marcos, San Marcos, CA 92096

Published online: 1 October 1999

Abstract. A student laboratory exercise in qualitative analysis has been developed to address student misconceptions associated with electrolyte and nonelectrolyte solutions. This exercise uses a previously reported, inexpensive, home-built conductivity meter to identify acid solutions. An additional short preparatory exercise provides students the opportunity to classify known solutions as strong, weak, or nonelectrolytes and gives students experience using a conductivity meter. These activities have been used successfully with both high school and introductory college chemistry students.

Key Words: Laboratories and Demonstrations; qualitative analysis; laboratory exercise; electrolyte

(*) Corresponding author. (E-mail: jasien@mailhost1.csusm.edu )

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