THE SEPARATION OF A MIXTURE
Write on this lab exercise in pencil.
Problem Statement
How can we use the properties of matter to determine its identity?
Purpose
This activity allows you to do the following.
 Apply known physical properties to identify
unknown substances.
 Note the physical nature of a
heterogeneous mixture.
 Perform separatory techniques.
 Calculate percent by mass.
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Calculate percent error to demonstrate
accuracy.
Consult standard reference sources.
Develop and practice laboratory techniques
and skills.
Gain knowledge of laboratory equipment.
Background
In your text, read about heterogeneous mixtures and how they to separate them. Copy each question onto
notebook paper and answer in complete sentences. Staple the answers to the data table. (@ 5 pts.)
1. Examine the mixture without removing it from the vial. What makes this a heterogeneous mixture?
2. List five basic techniques used in separating mixtures.
3. Chemical change is not necessary to separate a mixture. Why is this?
Materials
You will receive a vial containing a mixture consisting of several parts. Only basic separatory techniques will be
required to complete this assignment. Other lab equipment is available as need arises. You will need nothing
outside what is available to you in this lab.
Procedure
You will design and conduct a series of steps to separate the mixture into its parts. Remember to record the mass
of all materials or equipment used. During the activity, you must do the following.
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Clearly describe the parts and properties used.
Determine the mass of each identified part.
Determine the percent composition by mass for each part.
Determine the density of the dull, silvery biscuit-shaped metal to verify its suspected identity.
Consult a reference source, CRC Handbook, to determine dull silvery metal’s theoretical density.
Determine your percent error in observed vs. theoretical densities of the dull silvery metal.
Write a short essay answering the problem statement.
Operating Procedures
1. Use no more than two weighing boats.
2. Folder seven or eight paper squares into envelopes to store the separated parts of the mixture.
3. Package each part separately. Label and secure each with tape. Do not recombine separated parts.
4. Place separated parts into a labeled beaker for storage Place this cup in the green tray on the front desk.
5. Return all equipment as instructed.
Follow Up
Perform the calculations and answer the question posed in the problem statement. You should include as many
properties as possible in your answer. Your answer should reflect the scope of the activity.
Grade
The assignment’s grade counts as a lab grade with a weight of two.
SC1. Students will analyze the nature of matter and its classifications.
b. Identify substances based on chemical and physical properties.
 You exceeded the standard(s).
 You met the standard(s).
 You did not meet the standard(s).
THE SEPARATION OF A MIXTURE
194 Points
Group Members: ____________________________________ Date: __________
Data Table: Use Pencil Only
Part
Brief Description of Part
(2 pts.)
Suspected
Identity (2 pts.)
Vial & Sample
plastic vial & heterogeneous
mixture
vial & sample
Part 1
Vial
plastic vial
vial
Mass (g)
(2 pts.)
Percent Mass of Whole (0.1%)
(4 pts.) (Show work.)
100.0 %
Part 2
Part 2
Properties Used
(5 pts.)
Part 3
Part 3
Properties Used
(5 pts.)
Part 4
Part 4
Properties Used
(5 pts.)
Part 5
Part 5
Properties Used
(5 pts.)
Part 6
Part 6
Properties Used
(5 pts.)
Part 7
Part 7
Properties Used
(5 pts.)
Part 8
Part 8
Properties Used
(5 pts.)
Totals 
g
SC1. Students will analyze the nature of matter and its classifications.
b. Identify substances based on chemical and physical properties.
 You exceeded the standard(s).
 You met the standard(s).
 You did not meet the standard(s).
%
THE SEPARATION OF A MIXTURE
Show all work. (10 pts.)
Theoretical Density of Dull Silvery
Metal from CRC Handbook
= _______________ g/mL
Show all work. (10 pts.)
Density Calculation for
Dull Silvery Matter
Percent Error
Calculation for
Dull Silvery
Matter
Labeled Miscellaneous Data (10 pts.)
Answer to Problem Statement (30 pts.)
SC1. Students will analyze the nature of matter and its classifications.
b. Identify substances based on chemical and physical properties.
 You exceeded the standard(s).
 You met the standard(s).
 You did not meet the standard(s).
THE SEPARATION OF A MIXTURE
Group Members: ____________________________________ Date: __________
Grade Feedback
Background ( 15 pts.)
⬚ No answered background questions are present.
⬚
⬚
⬚
All answers clearly show an understanding of the separation of heterogeneous mixtures.
Most answers show an understanding of the separation of heterogeneous mixtures.
Answers show little understanding as to how to separate a heterogeneous mixture.
Data, Observations, and Calculations ( 149 pts.)
⬚ No data are present.
⬚
⬚
⬚
All answers clearly show an understanding of the separation of heterogeneous mixtures.
Most answers show an understanding of the separation of heterogeneous mixtures.
Answers show little understanding as to how to separate a heterogeneous mixture.
194 Points
SC1. Students will analyze the nature of matter and its classifications.
b. Identify substances based on chemical and physical properties.
 You exceeded the standard(s).
 You met the standard(s).
 You did not meet the standard(s).