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An Inexpensive Microscale Method for Studying the Laws of Definite and Multiple Proportions

CSEF · 2003 Chemistry

Ben Laniado · Grant (Ulysses S.) Senior High School, Van Nuys

Overview

Objectives/Goals The laws of definite and multiple proportions were major clues leading to the atomic theory. We have devised a method to observe both laws in a simple inexpensive microscale experiment. Methods/Materials . Steel wool was burned in air. The product was characterized as iron(II) iron(III) oxide (Fe3O4) in a yield of 105% ± 7%. This was treated with hydrochloric acid giving a product that was characterized as iron(III) chloride (FeCl3, yield 100% ± 3%). The FeCl3 was hydrolyzed and the product was characterized as iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3, yield 107% ± 13%, at the time of writing) Conclusions/Discussion The good reproducible yields of Fe3O4 and FeCl3 demonstrate the law of definite proportions. The simple ratios of mass of oxygen per gram of iron in the two oxides demonstrate the law of multiple proportions. Further work is needed to improve the precision of the measurement of Fe2O3.

Summary statement

We observed the laws of definite and multiple proportions using a simple, cheap, fast, method.

Help received

Teacher did some preliminary experiments. High school lab was used.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2003 Chemistry · Entry S0512

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