Mini Lab: Identify the Unknown

Your challenge

Identify one unknown ionic compound using conductivity, a flame test, and a precipitation reaction.

Plan

In your notebook, plan all three tests. For each one write what you will do, what you will observe, and how the result helps you identify the unknown. Get your plan approved before you begin.

Investigate

Carry out your approved plan. Record the result of each test in your notebook as you go, organized so another scientist could follow what you did.

1. Conductivity answers: is the unknown ionic?
2. Flame test answers: what is the cation?
3. Precipitation answers: what is the anion?

Identify

Write the compound's formula and name. List your three observations. Write the balanced precipitation equation and identify the precipitate. Finish with a short CER paragraph connecting your evidence to your identification.

Wear goggles. Use small samples. Tie back hair before using a flame. Silver nitrate stains skin and clothing.