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Virtual Lab: Calculating the Empirical & Molecular Formula of Magnesium Chloride

Last updated almost 2 years ago
17 questions

Purpose of the Lab:

In this virtual lab, you'll learn how to calculate the empirical formula of magnesium chloride by reacting solid magnesium with hydrochloric acid. Through a sequence of steps, you'll create magnesium chloride, gaining hands-on experience with chemical reactions in a virtual environment. You will deduce the Empirical Formula of Magnesium based on the mole ratio of Magnesium and Chlorine.


Objectives:

  • Empirical Formula Understanding: Master the scientific method to identify the simplest ratio of magnesium to chlorine in a compound.

  • Scientific Method Application: Participate in a virtual experiment that involves mixing chemicals, observing their reactions, and interpreting the results.

  • Data Collection: Create a data table and record the collected data with the correct units.


  • Data Analysis & Calculations: Determine the mole ratio of magnesium to chlorine using your measurements to calculate the empirical formula of magnesium chloride.

  • Data Collection: Create a data table and record the collected data with the correct units.

  • Critical Thinking Development: Analyze the experiment's outcomes, especially unexpected ones, to understand the potential reasons behind them.


Instructions:

1. Completing the Pre-lab Activity:

a. Answer the pre-lab questions to prepare for the experiment.
b. Review your answers with your teacher to ensure you're ready to proceed.
2. Conducting the Experiment:

a. Begin the experiment by watching the instructional video provided in the FORMATIVE activity.
b. Carefully follow the step-by-step instructions, completing all sections as you go.
c. Accurately record all measurements and observations in FORMATIVE.
3. Completion and Submission: Once you've completed the experiment and answered all questions, review your work to ensure accuracy.
Submit your lab activity through FORMATIVE, making sure every section is thoroughly completed.
4. Reflection: Reflect on the experiment and your findings. Think about what you've learned regarding empirical formulas and any obstacles you encountered during the lab. This is a crucial step in deepening your understanding of the scientific process and its application.
Pre-lab Activity : Complete Questions 1-2 before moving to the experiment
Required
1
The title of this lab is _______
Required
1

What is the molecular formula (MF) of a compound whose empirical formula is X2​Y, given that the empirical formula mass is 10.33 g/mol and the compound's molecular molar mass is 31 g/mol?

Experiment : Start the Video and complete the Questions. You can always go back and watch the video again.
Required
1
The reactants in this reaction are ____________________
Required
1

The products in this experiment are magnesium chloride and water.

Required
1

What is the key measurement we need to track throughout this lab?

Required
1

What was measured before adding the solid magnesium to the evaporating dish?

Required
1

What is the identity of the excess liquid being evaporated?

Required
1

What changes can we expect in the mass of the evaporating dish after the liquid has evaporated?

Required
1

What is the white residue left in the evaporating dish?

Required
1

Why did we place the evaporating dish back onto the hot plate for a second time and calculate its mass again?

Data Collection: Creating a table and collecting data
Required
1

Please create a table resembling the one shown in the video, including the titles and corresponding values/units.

Calculations
Required
1

What is the mass of magnesium in this reaction?

Required
1

Calculate the mass of chlorine.

1
Calculate and select the moles of magnesium and chlorine. ____________________
Required
1

What is the Empirical Formula (EF) of Magnesium Chloride.

Required
1

Magnesium Chloride has a Molar mass of 95.221 g/mol. Find the Molecular Formula of Magnesium Chloride.

Reflection
Required
1

Think about the experiment and what you discovered. Write a short paragraph about what you learned about empirical formulas and any problems you had during the lab.