Calorimetry

Inquiry Activity
Learning Objectives
Students should be able to:
Use a pipette and temperature probe connected to data logging software
Extrapolate data for T0
Calculate T, q, H
Identify issues and suggest improvements to the method
Consider aspects of reliability and accuracy related to this experiment

Learning Outcomes
Students will produce:
Graph from data logger
Calculated data (T, q, H)
Answers to questions and conclusion

Aim
To determine the heat of neutralisation. The enthalpy change of neutralisation is the enthalpy change
when 1 mole of water is formed from an acid base reaction. This is commonly known as the heat of
neitralisation.

Safety issues
Wear safety glasses throughout this experiment.
Acids and bases are corrosive and caustic take great care not to get any on skin. If spills occur,
wash immediately under running water and notify teacher.

Materials
250 mL pyrex beaker
pipette
polystyrene foam cups with lids or with additional polystyrene sheeting
copper wire stirrer
temperature probe and data logger, or thermometer
electronic balance
acid .
base

Method
1. The calorimeter consists of a polystyrene cup nested in a beaker for stability. Use the provided
lid or construct a foam lid to fit the cup and include a hole to insert the temperature probe and
a hole for the stirrer.
2. Use a pipette to measure 50.0 cm3 of acid into the calorimeter.
3. Insert the temperature probe and stirrer and record the temperature for two minutes.
4. Add 50.0 cm3 of base to the calorimeter and replace the lid. Stir and record the temperature
over the next 5 minutes.

5.1_Calorimetry_Inquiry_Activity SR.docx




Results and calculations
1. Use the output from your data logger to determine the change in temperature (T) due to the
neutralisation of acid. Some data loggers present the information graphically, some in tabular
format. You will need to print the graph to extrapolate your data for T0.
2. Use the T to calculate the heat liberated or absorbed. Assume that C = 4.18 JK-1 g-1 .
3. Calculate the number of moles of acid and the number of moles of base. Use this to determine
the limiting reagent and deduce the number of moles of water formed.
4. Calculate the molar heat of neutralization and compare your results to the theoretical value.
Questions
5. Explain why it is important to monitor the temperature of the system for 2 minutes before and
5 minutes after the addition of the base.
6. Discuss how the reliability of these measurements could be improved.
7. Explain why the use of a temperature probe connected to a data logger can provide more
accurate results than a thermometer.
8. Explain how the assumptions made and the method affect the accuracy of your experiment.

Conclusion



References:
Practical based on Practical Activity 14.1, Chemistry 1: Preliminary Course, adapted by F. Cassidy
IB Oxford Chemistry Textbook 2014 Ed, p 140-143
http://www.chemguide.co.uk/physical/energetics/solution.html

5.1_Calorimetry_Inquiry_Activity SR.docx