CuSO4 crystals

• What is the aim of the experiment?

  Investigate preparation of copper sulfate crystals
• What equipment is needed for preparing copper sulfate?

  • 25 cm​3 measuring cylinder
  • Two 250 cm​3 beakers
  • Glass rod
  • Evaporating basin
  • Spatula
  • Funnel and filter paper
  • Water bath
  • Bunsen burner
  • Tripod and gauze
• What chemicals are required for the experiment?

  • Sulfuric acid
  • Copper oxide
• What is the first step in the method for preparing copper sulfate?

  Measure 25 cm​3 of sulfuric acid
• Why is the sulfuric acid warmed in the experiment?

  To increase the rate of reaction
• How is excess copper oxide identified in the reaction?

  Solid doesn't disappear when stirred
• What is the purpose of the filter paper in the method?

  To remove excess copper oxide
• What is the filtrate in this experiment?

  The filtered solution containing copper sulfate
• What should be done when almost all water has evaporated?

  Turn off the heat and leave to dry
• What color are the copper sulfate crystals formed?

  Blue
• What is the chemical equation for the reaction?

  CuO + H​2​SO​4​ → CuSO​4​ + H​2​O
• Why should the Bunsen burner be turned off before all water evaporates?

  To prevent copper sulfate decomposition
• Why is copper oxide added in excess?

  To ensure all sulfuric acid reacts
• How can the mass of copper oxide produced be calculated?

  Weigh basin before and after adding copper oxide
• How is the percentage yield calculated?

  Percentage yield = Yield / Theoretical yield x 100
• What safety precautions should be taken during the experiment?

  • Turn off Bunsen burner before evaporation ends
  • Wear eye protection and wash hands after contact
  • Tie hair back and keep flammable chemicals away
  • Ensure water bath is stable to prevent burns
• What can happen if hot copper sulfate crystals are not handled properly?

  They can spit out during evaporation
• What is the risk associated with sulfuric acid?

  It is corrosive
• What should be done if sulfuric acid contacts skin?

  Wash hands immediately
• What should be done with the Bunsen burner when not in use?

  Turn gas off or use safety flame
• What is the purpose of using a water bath in this experiment?

  To provide controlled heating
• How does the method ensure that all sulfuric acid reacts?

  By adding copper oxide in excess
• What happens to copper oxide during the reaction?

  It reacts to form copper sulfate and water
• What is the role of the evaporating basin in the experiment?

  To evaporate the solution and form crystals