Water sample analysis: distillation
I can use distillation to purify water samples and analyse the distillate to test its purity.
Water sample analysis: distillation
I can use distillation to purify water samples and analyse the distillate to test its purity.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Distillation can be used to purify water samples.
- Boiling point data can be analysed to assess the purity of water samples.
- The more impurities present in a sample, the larger the temperature range over which the water will boil.
- Pure water boils at 100°C.
Common misconception
All water samples boil at 100°C.
If a water sample is impure, the boiling point of water increases. The greater the amount of impurities in a water sample, the larger the temperature range over which it boils.
Keywords
Impurity - A chemical that is found in a material in very small amounts, but can change the material's properties.
Pure - A single element or compound that is not mixed with any other substance.
Sample - A smaller portion of a larger quantity of a substance.
Distillation - A separation technique that uses boiling and condensation to remove and isolate a liquid component of a mixture.
Distillate - The liquid that is condensed from the gas state during distillation.
Equipment
Quickfit apparatus (or conical flask, test tube, delivery tube, ice, beaker, tripod, gauze), thermometer, Bunsen Burner, heatproof mat, sample of 'sea water'.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
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