0.27 - actual value of AlCl2
1.1173 - theoritical value of Alcl2
% Error = [(0.27-1.1173)/1.1173] * 100
= -76 %
What are some reasons for the -76% error. I thought of 2 but i`m not sure if they're right.
- we spilled some of the AlCl2 while the reaction was taking place
- the reaction was not complete
I'm sure you intended to type AlCl3.
Spilling is one.
Most CuCl2 I have seen is wet. If you didn't dry it the mass you weighed may not have been the true mass of the CuCl2.
Also, it is difficult to get dry AlCl3 since AlCl3 is very hygroscopic. If you didn't dry the product the mass you finished with could have been the wrong mass. In this case, however, wet AlCl3 would have caused you to appear to have more than you actually had. That would have led to a + error.
Thanks Dr. Bob :)
Your two reasons for the -76% error in the experiment are indeed plausible. Let's discuss them further and explore other possible reasons for such a large negative error:
1. Spillage of AlCl2:
If some of the AlCl2 was spilled or lost during the reaction, the actual value obtained would be lower than the theoretical value. This could happen due to human error or mishandling of the chemicals.
2. Incomplete reaction:
If the reaction between the reactants did not proceed to completion, the amount of AlCl2 produced would be lower than expected. This can occur if the reaction conditions (such as temperature, pressure, or time) were not optimal, impurities were present, or the reactants were not mixed thoroughly.
Other potential reasons for the -76% error could include:
3. Measurement errors:
Accurate measurement of the reactants and products is crucial in determining the amount of AlCl2 produced. Errors in measurement, such as using an imprecise or inaccurate weighing scale or incorrectly reading the graduated cylinder, can lead to significant deviations from the theoretical value.
4. Chemical impurities:
The presence of impurities in the reactants or reagents could alter the reaction's outcome. For example, if one of the reactants was contaminated, it could affect the amount of AlCl2 formed and result in a lower actual value.
5. Side reactions:
Side reactions may occur alongside the main reaction, leading to the formation of unwanted byproducts. These byproducts can reduce the overall yield of the desired product (in this case, AlCl2). Side reactions can happen due to unfavorable reaction conditions or the presence of impurities.
6. Experimental limitations:
No experiment is perfect, and there could be limitations in equipment, technique, or procedure that contribute to the error. For instance, incomplete mixing, losses during transfer, or using expired or impure chemicals can all affect the experimental results.
To determine the actual reason(s) for the -76% error, it would be helpful to review the experimental procedure, carefully analyze the experimental data, and consider any possible limitations or sources of error during the experimental setup and execution.