The Synthesis and Characterization of Rouaite, a Copper Hydroxy Nitrate. An Integrated First-Year Laboratory Project

Abstract

The synthesis and analysis of a copper hydroxy nitrate provides an exposure to a simple ionic synthesis, qualitative analysis of copper and nitrate, two gravimetric analyses (copper and nitrate), one volumetric analysis (hydroxide), and a colorimetric analysis (copper). The results allow the student to determine the identity of the double salt and to observe the importance of careful analytical data in establishing composition. The use of two different methods for the analysis of copper also permits a comparison of two different analytical techniques. The project is ideally suited for groups of four students and can be completed in about three 3-hour lab periods. Alternatively, the compound can be prepared and analyzed by only one or two procedures in two laboratory periods