The variable being manipulated is the reaction between 2 g of solid copper (II) sulfate pentahydrate and 2 mL of 6 molar hydrochloric acid with approximately .25 g of aluminum foil being conducted in a real lab in addition to theoretically on paper, where the reactants are expected to create the product of an acidic, aqueous solution of copper (II) sulfate pentahydrate. Dependent Variable The variable being measured is the amount of aqueous copper (II) sulfate pentahydrate produced from the reaction between solid copper (II) sulfate pentahydrate and aluminum foil, which will be measure in grams using a scale. Controlled Variables Throughout the duration of the experiment, the amounts of reactants used theoretically and physically will …show more content…
Copper (II) sulfate pentahydrate by itself, as a solid, is used for both treating phosphorus poisoning and algae-growth prevention. It is a “sulfate salt of copper” (CID=24463). Aluminum is a metal used often in daily life in such items as foils and kitchen supplies due to it being non-toxic, as well as very malleable and ductile (Aluminum). Reacting these two reactants together is done with the intention of producing copper, which is a metal often used to make coins, preventing the growth of algae, and electronic equipment (Copper). Placing them into the hydrochloric acid will speed up the process as it is a catalyst to the …show more content…
This equation will provide for the ability to calculate the moles of both the given and desired substances, which can be divided to find the theoretical yield. An experiment will then take place: first, it is important to properly clean a working station and to wear goggles and a lab coat. A beaker can then be filled with 10 mL of of water before gathering 2 g of solid copper (II) sulfate pentahydrate, 2 mL of 6 molar hydrochloric acid, and approximately .25 g of aluminum foil as provided; a scale can be used to keep these measurements accurate. Using a stirring rod, stir the hydrochloric acid into the water before placing the solid copper (II) sulfate pentahydrate into the beaker of water. Let the hydrochloric acid and solid copper (II) sit in the water for two minutes as the next portion of the experiment is prepared. Heat up a heating pad to 275 degrees °F before placing the beaker on top of the heating pad. Using a pair of tweezers, carefully drop the pieces of aluminum foil into the water. Allow mixture to sit on the heating pad until dissolved, constantly stirring. Once completed, turn the heating pad off. Measure the beaker on the scale once more and subtract the weight of the 10 mL of water as well as the measurement of the