Simple Formula of a Compound

612 Words3 Pages
ESTON NJOROGE LAB REPORT : SIMPLEST FORMULA OF A COMPOUND 10 / 4 / 2013 Introduction Chemical compounds are composed of atoms of different elements. The atoms are held together by chemical bonds. It has been shown experimentally that the ratio of moles of the elements in a compound is nearly always a ratio of moles of the elements in a compound is nearly always a ratio of small, whole numbers. The few exceptions are known as nonstoichiometric compounds. The formula containing the lowest possible ratio is known as its simplest formula ; also called the empirical formula. To find the simplest formula of a compound one can carry out an experiment of determining the mass of the compound, then the moles, hence the ratio. Objective The objective of this experiment was to prepare a compound and collect data from which you can determine the mass of each element in the compound. From the mass of each element in a compound, determine its simplest formula. In this case, the simplest formula of Magnesium Oxide. Apparatus / materials * Bunsen burner * A crucible * Clamp and stand * Pipe-day triangle * A piece of Magnesium metal * A dropper * An electric balance * A wire gauze * A pair of tongs Safety precautions * Handle the Bunsen burner and hot items carefully to avoid any burn injuries. * When adding water to the possible product Magnesium nitride, keep distance due to spattering which may occur. * Safety glasses must be worn at all times. * Dispose of any solid residue as directed by your instructor. Procedure Measure the mass of the crucible with its lid on the electric balance. Record your data. Loosely fold the Magnesium ribbon and put in the crucible. Measure their mass on the electric balance. Record the mass. Place a pipe-day triangle over a Bunsen burner. Remove the lid of the crucible

More about Simple Formula of a Compound

Open Document