Chemistry Green Principals Acid/Base Titrations, Extractions Wood Ash labs

In this experiment we will extract the basic substances from a sample of wood ash and then determine their base potential compared to sodium hydroxide, the base often used in the production of biodiesel.

This lesson contains a reading so students will understand some of the practical uses of wood ash around the home. There are 2 simple quick labs to introduce to your students the uses of something that is usually thrown out. One lab is how to build a friction fire. The second is for students to learn how to use wood ash to clean glass.

Objectives

1. To learn how to perform extractions.

2. To learn how to perform acid/base titrations.

3. To introduce students to the principles of green chemistry

Materials

Lab #1

2 pieces of wood 2 X 4 At least 1 foot long

2 cotton balls

Straw or any organic dry material which lights easily.

Lab #2

2 Tablespoons of wood ash

1 Tablespoon water

Cloth

Bowl

Lab #3

Wood ash

Potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHP)

Deionized water

Thymolphthalein indicator

(2) 250mL beakers

250mL volumetric flask

50mL Erlenmeyer flask

Fluted filter paper (15cm diameter)

50mL burette

Balance

Funnel

You can also keep this lab if you teach botany. Contains great tips on how to use wood ash in your garden.

Wood as this is a great lesson to work with your history department to relearn how our great grandparents used wood ash in everyday life.