Describe how you would prepare 250.0 mL of a 0.500 M solution of NaCl by using apparatus found in a chemistry lab.

Use a 250 mL volumetric flask. You want 58.5 (that's approximate for NaCl but you need to do it exactly) in a liter for 1 M, or 1/2 that for 0.5 M. Then for only 250 mL you need 1/4 of that (which works out to be 58.5/8 but check me out on that). Dissolve in a small amount of water in the flask, then make to the mark with distilled or deionized water. (The important point to make with this type problem is for you to recognize that you don't take 58.5/8 g NaCl and ADD IT TO 250 mL because that leads to a volume greater than 250 mL. That's why you dissolve it in a little water in the flask, then make the total solution up to the mark on the neck of the flask.

To prepare a 0.500 M solution of NaCl with a volume of 250.0 mL, you would need to use the following apparatus found in a chemistry lab:

1. A balance: This is used to accurately measure the mass of NaCl powder required.

2. A volumetric flask (250.0 mL): This is a glass container with a precise volume marking, used for preparing accurate solutions.

3. A weigh boat or weighing paper: This is used to hold the NaCl powder during the weighing process.

4. A spatula or weighing scoop: This is used to transfer NaCl powder from the weigh boat to the flask.

5. A deionized or distilled water source: This is used as the solvent to dissolve the NaCl.

Now, let's walk through the steps to prepare the solution:

1. Weigh the NaCl: Using a balance, accurately measure the required mass of NaCl to prepare the solution. The molar mass of NaCl can be found by adding the atomic masses of sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl), which are 22.99 g/mol and 35.45 g/mol, respectively. Multiply this molar mass by the desired molarity (0.500 M) and the final volume (0.250 L) to determine the mass of NaCl needed.

2. Add NaCl to the flask: Carefully transfer the measured mass of NaCl to the volumetric flask using the spatula or weighing scoop. Be sure to handle the NaCl with care and avoid spillage.

3. Add water to the flask: Fill the flask with deionized or distilled water until the level reaches the precisely marked line on the flask, which indicates a volume of 250.0 mL.

4. Dissolve NaCl: Cap the flask and gently swirl or invert it to dissolve the NaCl completely. Make sure that all the NaCl is fully dissolved in the water before proceeding.

5. Final solution: Once the NaCl is dissolved, the resulting solution in the volumetric flask is a 0.500 M solution of NaCl with a volume of 250.0 mL.

Remember to follow proper laboratory safety protocols while handling chemicals and equipment, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) like goggles and gloves, and working in a well-ventilated area.