I interpreting my results for a thermal decomposition lab

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on a thermal decomposition lab where the participant aimed to determine the percentage of NaCl in a mixture with calcium sulfate dihydrate. The participant achieved a percent error of 12%, which was consistent across their lab group. Key factors contributing to this error include the incomplete removal of water from the hydrate and variations in environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity affecting the composition of hydrates.

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  • Familiarity with calcium sulfate dihydrate and its properties
  • Knowledge of the effects of temperature and humidity on chemical reactions
  • Basic laboratory techniques for measuring mass and transferring compounds
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This discussion is beneficial for chemistry students, laboratory technicians, and educators involved in experimental design and analysis of thermal decomposition reactions.

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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The Attempt at a Solution


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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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