Introduction

After a compound has been synthesized, tests should be carried out to verify that the compound formed is indeed the compound desired. There are a number of tests that can be performed to verify that the compound is the one desired. In Experiment 15A, you prepared alum crystals, KAl(SO₄)₂•12H₂O. In Experiment 15B, you will conduct a series of tests to determine if your crystals are really alum.

The first test is to find the melting temperature of the compound and compare this value with the accepted (published) value for alum (92.5°C). The second test determines the water of hydration present in the alum crystals. The third test is a chemical test to determine the percent sulfate in your sample of alum.

Objectives