M6 Activity 1

After studying the lesson and watching all the videos, answer the following
questions.  Answer in not more than 5 sentences per question.

1.  Discuss the a) direct method of weighing and b) indirect weighing using the
analytical balance.  
a). Direct method of weighing means that the object is placed directly on the balance
while taking note of the reading. When weighing directly, it is required that the balance
is set to zero by pressing the “on” button with nothing in the pan. To transfer samples,
use a clean scoopula and carefully put in a container until you reach your desired mass.
b). Indirect method of weighing means that the sample is put into a weighing bottle with
a lid on and placed on the scale to record its mass. Take some of the sample and
carefully place it on a different container. Record the new mass and continue this
procedure until you achieve your desired sample.

2. Explain how suction filtration is carried out in the laboratory. Give the
important points that must be observed in doing the process.  
Suction filtration is an operation wherein evacuating the air below the filter paper in
order to maintain pressure and has the ability to increase the rate of filtration. In this
process, a pressure gradient performs this function and has the advantage to offer a
variable rate depending on the strength of the pump used to extract air from the
Buchner flask. Do not use suction filtration to filter a solid from a liquid.

3. Explain why it is important to wash the precipitate. Can distilled water be used
to wash all types of precipitates? 
It is important to wash the precipitate in order to remove impurities because water
eliminates soluble impurities. Distilled water can be used to wash all types of
precipitates because they are insoluble in water. Any remaining contaminating solution
can be easily removed with distilled water.

4. Discuss how to use a desiccator.  When should a desiccant be replaced?   

A desiccator is used to store dried samples in a dry atmosphere. When using a
desiccator, slide the lid horizontally until it comes off and use one hand to hold the
bottom of the desiccator while the other hand is grasping the knob. Put the lid on top
and slide across to close the desiccator and put a grease on the lid. A desiccant should
be replaced when it becomes wet or clumpy or the color changes into pink.