OK i did a lab in which we had to calculate the rate of reaction by observing how much gas was produced by the experiment. to do this we used a ubside down graduated cylinder in a tub of water and placed a gas collection tube between the testube and the graduated cylinder
WHat possible sourced of error can be caused by this method of gas collection
ANY HELP would be appreciate =)
In the method you described, there are a few potential sources of error that can affect the accuracy of your gas collection and, consequently, the calculated rate of reaction. Here are a few possible sources of error:
1. Air bubbles: Air bubbles can get trapped in the gas collection tube or the upside-down graduated cylinder. These bubbles can displace some of the gas produced by the reaction, leading to an underestimation of the total volume of gas collected.
2. Water level fluctuation: The water level in the tub can change due to temperature variations, movements of the apparatus, or vibration. These fluctuations may result in the displacement of water into the gas collection tube or graduated cylinder, causing incorrect volume measurements.
3. Leaks: The gas collection system might have small leaks at the connections between the test tube, gas collection tube, and graduated cylinder. If there are any leaks, some gas may escape, leading to an inaccurate measurement of the gas produced.
4. Vapor pressure: The presence of water vapor in the gas collection tube can affect the volume of gas collected. As the water evaporates, it can displace some of the gas, leading to inaccurate measurements.
To minimize these sources of error and obtain more accurate results, you can:
- Ensure the apparatus is tightly connected at all joints and check for any leaks before starting the experiment.
- Carefully remove and eliminate any air bubbles from the gas collection tube and graduated cylinder.
- Regularly monitor and adjust the water level in the tub to maintain a constant height throughout the experiment.
- Account for any water vapor present in the gas collection tube by subtracting the vapor pressure from the total gas volume collected.
By being aware of these potential sources of error and taking appropriate precautions, you can improve the accuracy of your gas collection method and obtain more reliable results for calculating the rate of reaction.