Chemistry 30

• Using a simple calorimetry, the amount of heat absorbed or released during a simple reaction (dissolving a salt in water) will be calculated.
• Sample data is provided for those unable to actually perform the experiment. This will allow you to do the calculations and answer the lab questions.

• sodium acetate, anhydrous, CH₃CO₂Na
• ammonium nitrate, NH₄NO₃

• The temperature change is recorded when a solid salt (sodium acetate and ammonium nitrate) is dissolved in water.
• The amount of energy either absorbed or released (total heat of solution) is calculated using

Q = mcΔT

• Molar heat of solution is then determined and the chemical equations for the two reactions may be written, including the energy term.
• Finally, the percent error is calculated.

Other Web Links

• A virtual lab is also available (Iowa State University)