McMaster University - Chem3D03 Lab Manual
Chem3D03 Labs - General Remarks
Objectives
The purpose of the Chemistry 3D03 laboratory experiments is to illustrate and reinforce some
of the lecture material in the course, as well as to improve and extend your
practical ability. In the laboratory you will carry out a sequence of techniques
and synthetic experiments followed by identification of some compounds using both
chemical and physical techniques.
Preparation
Do not come into a laboratory unprepared. Read and understand the
experiments ahead of time. If you do not do this you will be unable to plan and
use your time efficiently. The demonstrators have the authority to require any
student who is not prepared to leave the laboratory. Occasionally, special
techniques will be demonstrated during the Thursday lecture.
Some experiments (e.g. Grignards) require scrupulously dry conditions. Glassware
for these experiments must be cleaned the week before, so that they are ready
to assemble at the very beginning of the lab period in which they are to be used.
Safety and Cleanliness
Many of the compounds and solvents that you will be handling are
highly flammable and highly toxic . Stay alert to these
hazards by checking for flames before pouring volatile solvents and, conversely, by
checking for fumes before lighting a burner. In case of a fire, DO NOT PANIC
- retreat to safety and call a demonstrator. Avoid inhalation of concentrated vapours;
sniff lightly to become familiar with the odours of your reagents and products.
Wash quickly and thoroughly if you get chemicals in contact with the skin.
Wear glasses, either prescription or safety, throughout the laboratory period.
Contact lenses are strictly forbidden.
Because of the size of the class, fume hoods are at a premium. They will be used
in particular experiments, generally by 2-3 people at the same time. You are
responsible for cleaning up after yourself.
Glassware can generally be cleaned with brush, soap and water. Stubborn gums and
tars may respond to acetone or other solvents. Use these solvents sparingly,
washing several times with a small volume rather than once with a large amount.
Keep your apparatus and your working area clean. In general, the longer you
leave apparatus dirty, the harder it is to clean! Do your share of the tidying
up of communal areas like reagent shelves, hoods and weighing stations.
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