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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2007  > June  >
In the Laboratory
Second-Year and AP Chemistry
Instrumental Analysis in the High School Classroom: UV–Vis Spectroscopy
Walt Erhardt
Battle Creek Area Mathematics and Science Center, Battle Creek, MI 49015
Cover
June 2007
Vol. 84 No. 6
p. 1024

Abstract
This article shows how second-year high school chemistry students can use the Ocean Optics Chem2000, a multi-wavelength UV–vis spectrophotometer, to help students think more independently in designing laboratory research. The article explains the process of nurturing the student from following directions for prescribed, concrete lab activities to designing, performing, and presenting their own personally interesting research. The article presents the results of one assigned lab: “Determining Which of the Seven FD&C Food-Approved Dyes are Used in Making Green Skittles”. The article also describes two student-initiated labs in which students apply their newly acquired instrumentation skills to personally interesting questions. The first lab determines the dye constituents in pharmaceutical capsules and the second lab determines the effectiveness of the UV-A, B, and C-range sunlight blockage, with a changing concentration of an SPF 30-rated sunscreen.
Supplement
A student handout, instructor notes, and the spectra of the seven FD&C food dyes are available.
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Contents
More Information
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Citation
Erhardt, Walt. J. Chem. Educ. 2007, 84, 1024.
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Keywords
Analytical Chemistry; Applications of Chemistry; Dyes / Pigments; Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; High School / Introductory Chemistry; Instrumental Methods; Laboratory Instruction; UV-Vis Spectroscopy
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History
Created:
Last Updated:
4/24/2007
5/2/2007
 Caution! 
Experiments, laboratory exercises, lecture demonstrations, and other descriptions of the use of chemicals, apparatus, instruments, computers, and computer interfaces are presented in the Journal of Chemical Education as illustrative of new or improved ideas or concepts in chemistry instruction and are directed at qualified teachers. Although every effort is made to assure and encourage safe practices and safe use of chemicals, the Journal of Chemical Education cannot assume responsibility for uses made of its published materials. Many chemicals are hazardous. Precautions for the safe use of hazardous chemicals and directions for their proper disposal are described in the Material Safety Data Sheets and on the labels. We strongly urge all those planning to use materials from our pages to make choices and to develop procedures for laboratory and classroom safety in accordance with local needs and situations.
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