Science 8 : Looking at the ability of a solute to dissolve in a solvent. Not all solutes will dissolve in a solvent since it  depends on their physical properties. Activities / Labs that demonstrate this:

  • Chromatography Paper Experiment
    • Using:
      • Chromatography paper ( molecules will move up the paper based on their size and solubility)
      • Distilled water as the solvent
      • Markers as solute
        • Water soluble
        • Water insoluble (permeant)
      • Popsicle stick
      • Tape
      • Beaker
    • Procedure: Attach the paper to the popsicle stick, Place dot of marker about 1 cm from the end of the paper. Place the tip of the paper in the distilled water.
    • Notes – make sure markers are not monochromatic or you won’t see the different colors come out on the chromatography paper.

 

 

  • “Tie-dye” T-shirts
    • Looking at solubility of markers using isopropyl alcohol as solvent.
    • Using permeant markers to draw on T shirts
    • Isopropyl alcohol dissolves the marker and gives a tie-dye effect.
    • Use  chip dip or yogurt containers with tops of lids cut out to create a ring to hold shirts taut and catch excess isopropyl alcohol.
    • Ensure proper ventilation because isopropyl alcohol is very volatile.