Demonstrations to Increase Understanding of Topics in General Chemistry Courses: Equilibrium, Enthalpy, and Colligative Properties
Presenter Hometown
Richmond, KY
Major
Chemistry
Department
Chemistry
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Donghui Quan
Mentor Department
Chemistry
Recommended Citation
Whittaker, Laura R., "Demonstrations to Increase Understanding of Topics in General Chemistry Courses: Equilibrium, Enthalpy, and Colligative Properties" (2017). University Presentation Showcase Event. 14.
https://encompass.eku.edu/swps/2017/undergraduate/14
Abstract
Without experiments or demonstrations, chemical concepts can be difficult to visualize. Textbooks and lectures simply introduce students to chemistry, while demonstrations allow students to relate their knowledge to real world examples and intrigue students’ interest. Finally, demonstrations are not limited to the classroom; they are available to students through online modules. The purpose of this project was to perform and film demonstrations for general chemistry courses to increase students’ understanding of three chemical topics including equilibrium, enthalpy, and colligative properties.
First the dissociation of acetic acid and the cobalt chloride reaction were used to illustrate equilibrium. Students observed the effects of temperature and concentration on systems at equilibrium through color changes. Next, the endothermic reaction between barium hydroxide and ammonium thiocyanate was performed to demonstrate enthalpy. The change in heat was observed using a thermometer. Finally, a demonstration for colligative properties specifically vapor pressure lowering was constructed. Students observed decreased vapor pressure between flasks of salt water and distilled water by qualitatively comparing the amount of condensation in each flask.
As a result, four videos were made to demonstrate the three topics as stated above. These videos enhanced students’ learning by simultaneously providing visualization and explanation of topics students find challenging in general chemistry courses.
Presentation format
Poster
Poster Number
052
Demonstrations to Increase Understanding of Topics in General Chemistry Courses: Equilibrium, Enthalpy, and Colligative Properties
Without experiments or demonstrations, chemical concepts can be difficult to visualize. Textbooks and lectures simply introduce students to chemistry, while demonstrations allow students to relate their knowledge to real world examples and intrigue students’ interest. Finally, demonstrations are not limited to the classroom; they are available to students through online modules. The purpose of this project was to perform and film demonstrations for general chemistry courses to increase students’ understanding of three chemical topics including equilibrium, enthalpy, and colligative properties.
First the dissociation of acetic acid and the cobalt chloride reaction were used to illustrate equilibrium. Students observed the effects of temperature and concentration on systems at equilibrium through color changes. Next, the endothermic reaction between barium hydroxide and ammonium thiocyanate was performed to demonstrate enthalpy. The change in heat was observed using a thermometer. Finally, a demonstration for colligative properties specifically vapor pressure lowering was constructed. Students observed decreased vapor pressure between flasks of salt water and distilled water by qualitatively comparing the amount of condensation in each flask.
As a result, four videos were made to demonstrate the three topics as stated above. These videos enhanced students’ learning by simultaneously providing visualization and explanation of topics students find challenging in general chemistry courses.
