I interpreting my results for a thermal decomposition lab

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The experiment involved heating a flask with an unknown mixture of calcium sulfate dihydrate and NaCl to determine the percentage of NaCl. The observed percent error was 12%, which was consistent across the lab group. Factors contributing to this error may include incomplete removal of water from the hydrate or variations in the composition of hydrates due to environmental conditions. The accuracy of hydrate composition can be affected by temperature, humidity, and the sample's history. Understanding these variables is crucial for improving the reliability of results in thermal decomposition experiments.
littlebearrrr
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Homework Statement


I performed an experiment recently, which required me to heat a flask and an unknown compound to constant weight. The unknown was supposed to be a mixture of calcium sulfate dihydrate and NaCl. My goal for this lab was to determine the % NaCl in the mixture. My percent error wasn't too bad: I got 12%. I'm just curious as to what could have contributed to this, especially since this error was consistent among the rest of my lab group. (Note: I was sure to completely transfer all of my compound to my flask). Does it have anything to do with the hydrate not being completely driven off?


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littlebearrrr said:
unknown was supposed to be a mixture of calcium sulfate dihydrate

Composition of hydrates is often only approximate and depends on the temperature, humidity and sample history.
 
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