Evaporation and Intermolecular Attractions
Recommended for grades 9–16.
Introduction
The evaporation of a volatile liquid from the surface of a Temperature Probe is an endothermic process that results in a temperature decrease. The magnitude of a temperature decrease is, like viscosity and boiling temperature, related to the strength of intermolecular forces of attraction. In this experiment, you will investigate factors that determine strengths of intermolecular forces of attraction in alkanes and alcohols and the magnitudes of the temperature changes as these substances evaporate from a Temperature Probe.
Objectives
In the Preliminary Activity, you will gain experience using a Temperature Probe while you determine the temperature change as ethanol, C2H5OH, evaporates.
After completing the Preliminary Activity, you will first use reference sources to find out more about alkanes and alcohols before you choose and investigate a researchable question dealing with temperature changes as alkanes and alcohols evaporate.
Sensors and Equipment
This investigation requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for the Preliminary Activity
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the Preliminary Activity does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
See all standards correlations for Investigating Chemistry through Inquiry »
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.