Calculating the concentration of an acid
Demonstrate an understanding of safe working practice through experimental work, including the selection of appropriate methods
Record, interpret and analyse experimental investigations in relation to an original hypothesis and make suitable recommendations for enhancing future work
In order to successfully complete this assessment and meet the above learning outcomes, you must satisfy the following criteria:
Outline the procedure of an experiment, including an accurate method and list of materials
Identify and explain the independent, dependent and controlled variables in relation to a given experiment
Present data clearly and accurately with the use of appropriate tables and graphs
Interpret scientific results and identify potential sources of error, uncertainties, and anomalies
Critique experimental design and processes within a given experiment
Offer suitable recommendations and improvements that can be implemented in future experimental work
Instruction
To carry out the experiment, refer to the instructions for your specific practical assignment which can be found in a separate document. Your tutor will advise which experiment you will be carrying out in order to complete this assignment.
Completing the lab report
Introduction
Include a clear and detailed aim of the experiment with supporting background research to explain the theory and idea behind the experiment. It should also explain how the results you collect and analyse will enable the aim to be achieved.
Procedure
The procedure must be a detailed and clearly explained step by step method of the experiment with methodical and sequential instructions including range and repeats. You should discuss the suitability of the procedure in relation to the aim of the investigation.
Materials
Include a full list of all apparatus and equipment used during the experiment supported by a clear and annotated scientific diagram. You should also explain the choice of suitable materials and measurement strategies that enable you to produce accurate and precise results.
Variables
Identify and explain the dependent and independent variables within the experiment, including units, values and range. You should also note at least two controlled variables within the experiment, explain how they are controlled and the consequences that will occur if they are not controlled.
Safety
Identify all hazards related to the experiment and assess the risks associated with these hazards. You should also describe and justify the appropriate safety precautions that must be carried out to ensure the experiment is conducted safely in a laboratory environment.
Results table
Your results must be recorded accurately in a suitable table, with correct headings, units and rounding. The results should be presented clearly and must be fully reliable, including any required calculations.
Results graph
Your graph must be hand drawn with an appropriate scale, units and title. It should include independent and dependent variables labelled correctly on the axes. Your results must be accurately plotted on the graph, including a line/curve of best fit.
Critical analysis of results – conclusion
Include a detailed analysis of the results, identifying and describing clear trends and patterns with reference to your results data and graph. You should ensure scientific terminology is used to critically analyse the results, which includes suggestions of any further calculations or experimentation that may be required. Research should also be conducted to support your findings and fully explained with this section.
Show appropriate basic statistical calculations (mean, rate etc) with detailed explanations of how this relates to your original aim/hypothesis and whether this can be accepted or rejected. You should include suggestions with justifications of alternative suitable tests that may be used to further analyse the results.
Evaluation of scientific investigation
Provide a scientific critique of the experimental design and procedure of your experiment, identifying at least two areas of improvement. Anomalies should be identified, and explanations given into possible sources of errors and uncertainties. This should also include the consequences of potential/identified anomalies and how this affects the processing of data, looking at future experiments of this nature.
