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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2006  > February  >
In the Laboratory
Analysis of Iron in Lawn Fertilizer: A Sampling Study
Michael A. Jeannot
Department of Chemistry, Saint Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN 56301-4498
Cover
February 2006
Vol. 83 No. 2
p. 243
Abstract
A novel laboratory activity in sampling statistics, suitable for students in a quantitative analysis course, is described. In this activity, students measure the percentage of iron in a commercial lawn fertilizer by simple sorting and weighing. The pooled class data is used to determine the percent relative standard deviation due to sampling error, and this is compared to a theoretical model based on sampling statistics. The experiment is simple to perform, but significant and meaningful data is generated to help reinforce the most important ideas related to sampling theory. The use of a real-world sample is particularly intriguing and meaningful to the students. Results from two semesters have consistently demonstrated both the validity and limitations of the two-component sampling theory used in the analysis.
Supplement
Instructions for the students and notes for the instructor are available.
*  Contents JCE2006p0243W.doc (Microsoft Word)
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*  Citation
 Jeannot, Michael A. J. Chem. Educ. 2006 83 243.
*  Keywords
 Analytical Chemistry; Chemometrics; Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; Laboratory Instruction; Quantitative Analysis; Second-Year Undergraduate; Solids; Upper-Division Undergraduate
*  History
 Created:
Last Updated:		 1/5/2006
1/5/2006
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