Analysis of samples subject to physical and chemical interferences can greatly enhance the learning experience in instrumental analysis and environmental chemistry laboratories. This article describes a project-based experience in which students analyze simulated hazardous waste samples (carbonated beverages) for calcium by six techniques: (i) flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS) using external standard calibration, (ii) FAAS using external standard calibration with a releasing agent (Sr), (iii) FAAS using standard addition, (iv) FAAS using standard addition with a releasing agent (Sr), (v) ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) titration, and (vi) Ca-ion-specific electrode. Not surprisingly, students find that these different techniques yield conflicting results and their assignment is to explain their data in the format of a peer-reviewed journal article. Students report that this series of lab experiments is challenging and highly rewarding. Laboratory experiences such as this one should significantly improve the student's ability to analyze problematic samples and interpret experimental data.
Supplement
A list of required chemicals and instruments and instructions for all of the procedures are available.
Our Secondary School editors work hard to distill all the JCE materials to produce a fraction of particular interest to high school teachers. We call it CLIC.
In recent years we have worked hard to better match our advertisers with our readers. When shopping for chemistry education materials, visit our advertisers' WWW sites first.
Take JCE along on your outreach missions. Copies of the Journal, guest access to JCE Online, our publications catalog, and more are available for your participants.