Independent and Dependent Variables

[ditto_299]

I'm doing a lab where i need to calculate the heat energy, or enthalpy using the equation

(delta) H = m x c x T

my reactions are going to be of a strong acid and a strong base:

Sulfuric Acid + Sodium Hydroxide→ Sodium Sulfate + Water

and of a wek acid and the same strong base:

Ethanoic Acid + Sodium Hydroxide → Sodium Ethanoate + Water.

So, for the planning of the lab, I have to put in the independent and dependent variables. For independent I intially put that what doesn't change is the strong base, and also time. For the dependent variables, i put the temperature of the reaction. However, my teacher says that I should still revise this. Any suggestions or help?

thnx

 

[chemisttree]

Look more closely at 'm', 'c', and 'T' (probably 'delta T'). Dependent variables are things you can control... like how much of a reagent to add. Independent variables are things you can't control or that you are measuring... like how much the temperature changed during a process given a certain amount of reagent A and B you used.

 

[Blueshift5]

it is important to have a clear understanding of independent and dependent variables in an experiment. In your lab, the independent variable would be the type of acid used (strong or weak) and the dependent variable would be the change in temperature (enthalpy) of the reaction. The strong base and time are not considered independent variables in this case because they are not being varied or manipulated by you, but rather they are constant factors in the experiment.

It is also important to note that in your equation, the mass (m) and specific heat (c) are also independent variables, as they can vary depending on the amount and type of acid used. Therefore, you may want to consider including them in your independent variables as well.

One suggestion for revising your independent and dependent variables is to focus on the specific factors that you are changing or controlling in the experiment. For example, you could state your independent variable as "type of acid used" and your dependent variable as "change in temperature (enthalpy) of the reaction." This way, it is clear that you are manipulating the type of acid and measuring the resulting change in temperature.

Overall, it is important to be clear and specific when identifying independent and dependent variables in an experiment. This will help ensure the accuracy and validity of your results. I hope this helps and good luck with your lab!