You are a lab technician and mix with water in order to create 250 ml of a 17% salt-solution.
Discuss and explain the sources of error that may be occurring in creating the mixtures.
When creating a 17% salt solution by mixing salt with water, there are several potential sources of error that can occur. It's important to understand these sources of error to ensure accurate and precise results. Here are some possible sources of error:
1. Measurement errors: When measuring the salt and water, inaccuracies may occur due to human error or faulty measuring equipment. It's crucial to use proper measuring tools such as calibrated beakers, graduated cylinders, or scales to minimize these errors.
2. Contamination: Contamination can happen when foreign substances get into the salt or water during the preparation process. It is important to ensure that the measuring tools used are clean and free from any residual substances. Any impurities introduced can alter the concentration of the solution.
3. Dissolving inconsistencies: Thoroughly dissolving salt in water can be challenging, especially if the salt particles clump together or if the mixing is inadequate. This can lead to variations in concentration throughout the solution. It is necessary to stir or agitate the mixture sufficiently to ensure even distribution of salt particles.
4. Evaporation or loss of water: During the mixing process, some water may evaporate, leading to a decrease in the total volume of the solution. This can result in a higher salt concentration than intended. To minimize this error, cover the container during the preparation process and handle it in a controlled environment.
5. Incomplete solution transfer: Not transferring the entire salt or water solution to the final container can result in an inaccurate concentration. It is crucial to ensure that the entirety of the solution is accurately transferred to the final container.
To mitigate these errors, it is recommended to follow good laboratory practices such as using calibrated measuring tools, working in a controlled environment, ensuring clean equipment, and properly mixing the solutions. Additionally, verifying the concentration of the salt solution through chemical analysis or comparing against reference standards can help validate the accuracy of the prepared solution.