Combustion of alcohols: practical
I can analyse calorimetry data to determine which alcohol releases the most energy when combusted.
Combustion of alcohols: practical
I can analyse calorimetry data to determine which alcohol releases the most energy when combusted.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Calorimetry can be used to measure a reaction's energy change indirectly.
- Calorimetry data can be used to calculate the mass of alcohol needed to cause a 1°C rise in temperature of the water.
- An alcohol that causes a 1°C temperature rise when the least amount is combusted is releasing the most energy.
- The energy change of combustion for a variety of alcohols can be compared to the molecular formula of each alcohol.
Keywords
Alcohols - Alcohols are a homologous series that contain the -OH functional group.
Combustion - Combustion is an exothermic reaction where a substance reacts with oxygen.
Calorimetry - Calorimetry is an experiment that can be used to measure the energy released from a fuel such as alcohol.
Independent variable - The independent variable is the single variant that is changed in an investigation.
Common misconception
Forgetting to measure the initial mass of the burner and initial temperature of the water.
Emphasise the importance in remembering to measure this data when writing a method for this practical.
Equipment
Alcohol burners and calorimetry apparatus.
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).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
