2A PART 1: Titrations
, P7: Summarise key personal competencies developed in relation to scientific skills
undertaken:
KEY SKILLS
A key skill that I have learnt from performing titrations is being able to determine the concentration of a
sample by using an analytical method. To be able to calculate the unknown concentration of a solution
you would have to divide the amount of solute by the volume, as this is considered as a quantitative this
has enabled me to develop on my mathematical skills and rearranging equations to complete my
coursework.
During this investigation, this was the first time I had made a primary solution, I was sceptical that I would
ruin the measurements that were needed to prepare a primary standard solution as I had to add pure
water to the solution. Although, since doing the investigation I had become more confident in my
measurements and in using a weighing balance.
Whilst performing the investigation we had handled corrosive chemicals such as, dilute sodium
hydroxide, hydrochloric acid, and sodium hydroxide. Taking proper precautions such as wearing the
correct PPE was something I had improved on since I would usually forget to wear my safety goggles or
my gloves to protect my skin and eyes from chemical burns.
M4: Analyse skills developed and suggest improvements to own practice.
Whilst undertaking the titrations we had handled corrosive chemicals and had to take precaution when
moving around the laboratory as we had to weigh out some of the chemicals on the weighing balance. By
staying at my workstation and not constantly moving around the lab I was able to safely handle
chemicals. Making sure that food and drink was not on the table was something I prioritised as it could
become a contaminant to the investigation and cause my results to be invalid. In my key skills I had
mentioned that I had improved on the caution that I had to take whilst handling chemicals and making
sure that I have the correct PPE on whilst completing the investigation as in the past I have forgotten to
wear my safety goggles.
As this was my first-time performing titrations and determining the concentration of a sample this was a
new skill I had gained, and my confidence in titrating and determining concentration of solutions has
increased, using new equipment in this practical such as a pipette filler etc. my mathematical skills are
still something I do need to improve on as the wrong calculations can affect the results, such as the titre
volume could be incorrect. I was able to manage my time and complete the practical in the allocated time.
This is a skill that I have improved on from previous practical’s as I would usually have to restart the
practical due to a mistake made
Working alone on the practical since I did not have a lab partner caused me to take responsibility for my
work whilst in the laboratory, whether it be weighing chemicals or calibrating the pipette. I had to ensure
that I was following the method assigned so that I would not make any mistakes whilst doing the practical.
Being able to take responsibility and accountability for my actions whilst in the laboratory is a skill I would
like to further improve for future units.
2A PART 2: Colorimetry