Welcome to our IB Chemistry Internal Assessment (IA) Resource Page! We have compiled a selection of engaging and diverse IA topics designed to spark your curiosity and guide your research. Each topic is carefully crafted to provide you with a clear focus for your investigation. Whether you’re exploring the effect of temperature on reaction rates, the impact of pH on catalase activity, determining vitamin C content in fruit juices, or examining light intensity on photosynthesis in Elodea, most of these topics are suitable for both SL and HL students, with extensions for those seeking a deeper challenge. Dive into these exciting topics and start your scientific exploration with confidence! You can find the rubric and tips and tricks for science IA on another page.
1. Effect of Temperature on Reaction Rate of Sodium Thiosulfate and Hydrochloric Acid
Research Question: How does temperature affect the reaction rate between sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding reaction kinetics and the impact of temperature on reaction rates.
Background Information: Discusses reaction kinetics, collision theory, and the Arrhenius equation.
Variables:
Independent: Temperature.
Dependent: Reaction rate.
Controlled: Concentration of reactants, volume of solutions, and ambient conditions.
Methodology: Conduct experiments at different temperatures and measure the reaction rates. One common method is mixing sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid in a flask and placing them over a marked piece of paper. Observe the time it takes for the solution to turn cloudy and obscure the mark, indicating the reaction’s completion. Alternatively, you can measure the decrease in light transmission through the solution using a light sensor (spectrophotometer) and data logger for more precise results.
Data Analysis: Graph reaction rate versus temperature and apply the Arrhenius equation to determine activation energy.
Conclusion: Confirm the direct relationship between temperature and reaction rate.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Determine the activation energy using the Arrhenius equation, explore different methods for determining reaction rates.
2. Impact of pH on Catalase Activity in Potato Extract
Research Question: How does pH affect the enzyme activity of catalase in potato extract?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Exploring enzyme kinetics and the influence of pH on enzymatic activity.
Background Information: Discuss enzyme structure and function, factors affecting enzyme activity, and the role of pH.
Variables:
Independent: pH levels.
Dependent: Enzyme activity.
Controlled: Temperature, concentration of substrate and enzyme, volume of solutions.
Methodology: Measure the rate of oxygen production at different pH levels using a gas syringe, use a larger sample size to improve data accuracy and statistical significance.
Data Analysis: Graph enzyme activity versus pH, identify the optimal pH for catalase activity.
Conclusion: Determine the optimal pH and discuss deviations.
Evaluation: Address experimental limitations and suggest further research.
Extension for HL: Explore the enzyme kinetics by calculating Vmax and Km, investigate the effect of pH on enzyme structure.
3. Determining the Vitamin C Content in Different Fruit Juices Using Iodometric Titration
Research Question: What is the vitamin C content in various fruit juices determined using iodometric titration?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Evaluating the nutritional value of different fruit juices.
Background Information: Discuss the importance of vitamin C, iodometric titration principles, and the role of antioxidants.
Variables:
Independent: Type of fruit juice.
Dependent: Vitamin C content.
Controlled: Volume of juice, titration technique, and indicator used.
Methodology: Perform iodometric titrations on different fruit juices, record volumes, and calculate vitamin C content. Explore the use of alternative methods, such as spectrophotometry, for comparison and validation.
Data Analysis: Graph vitamin C content, compare between different juices.
Conclusion: Determine vitamin C content and evaluate nutritional claims.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Compare the results using different methods like DCPIP titration, explore the stability of vitamin C under different storage conditions.
4. Effect of Light Intensity on Photosynthesis Rate in Elodea
Research Question: How does light intensity affect the rate of photosynthesis in Elodea?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Investigate the fundamental principles of photosynthesis and the role of light.
Background Information: Covers the process of photosynthesis, light-dependent reactions, and the importance of light intensity.
Variables:
Independent: Light intensity.
Dependent: Rate of photosynthesis.
Controlled: Carbon dioxide concentration, temperature, and water availability.
Methodology: Measure oxygen production at different light intensities using a photosynthometer, ensure consistent lighting conditions. Measure other photosynthetic parameters (e.g., oxygen consumption) to provide a more comprehensive analysis.
Data Analysis: Graph rate of photosynthesis versus light intensity, identify the light saturation point.
Conclusion: Determine the optimal light intensity for photosynthesis in Elodea.
Evaluation: Address data accuracy, experimental setup, and suggest further research.
Extension for HL: Investigate the effect of different wavelengths of light, explore the relationship between light intensity and other photosynthetic parameters.
5. Investigating the Boiling Point Elevation of Water with Different Salt Concentrations
Research Question: How does salt concentration affect the boiling point of water?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Practical exploration of colligative properties and their real-world applications.
Background Information: Discuss boiling point elevation, colligative properties, and the impact of solute concentration.
Variables:
Independent: Salt concentration.
Dependent: Boiling point of water.
Controlled: Volume of water, type of salt, and atmospheric pressure.
Methodology: Measure boiling points of water with varying salt concentrations using a laboratory thermometer, consider varying the type of salt to investigate the impact of ionic strength.
Data Analysis: Graph boiling point versus salt concentration, calculate the boiling point elevation constant.
Conclusion: Confirm the direct relationship between salt concentration and boiling point elevation.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Calculate the boiling point elevation constant for each salt, explore the effect of different types of solutes on boiling point elevation.
6. Effect of Surface Area on Reaction Rate Between Marble Chips and Hydrochloric Acid
Research Question: How does the surface area of marble chips affect the rate of reaction with hydrochloric acid?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Fundamental exploration of surface area and reaction rate relationships.
Background Information: Discuss reaction kinetics, surface area impact, and collision theory.
Variables:
Independent: Surface area of marble chips.
Dependent: Reaction rate.
Controlled: Concentration of hydrochloric acid, volume of solution, and ambient conditions.
Methodology: Measure carbon dioxide production at different surface areas using a gas syringe, explore different shapes and sizes of marble chips to assess the influence of surface geometry.
Data Analysis: Graph rate of reaction versus surface area, calculate the reaction rate constant.
Conclusion: Confirm the direct relationship between surface area and reaction rate.
Evaluation: Address data accuracy, experimental setup, and suggest further experiments.
Extension for HL: Analyze the surface area-to-volume ratio’s impact on the reaction rate, investigate different shapes and sizes of marble chips.
7. Determining the Concentration of an Unknown Acid Using Titration
Research Question: What is the concentration of an unknown acid solution determined through titration with a standard base?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Practical application of acid-base titration techniques to determine unknown concentrations.
Background Information: Discuss acid-base reactions, titration principles, and indicator selection.
Variables:
Independent: Volume of titrant.
Dependent: Endpoint determination.
Controlled: Concentration of standard base, volume of unknown acid, and titration technique.
Methodology: Conduct titrations, record volumes, and calculate the concentration of the unknown acid. Introduce a known acid solution for calibration and comparison.
Data Analysis: Utilize titration curves and stoichiometric calculations to determine concentration.
Conclusion: Provide the calculated concentration and discuss accuracy.
Evaluation: Identify sources of error and suggest improvements.
Extension for HL: Perform back titration for more accuracy and comparison, explore the use of different indicators and their effects on titration results. (To perform a back titration in this context, you would first add an excess known volume and concentration of a standard base to the unknown acid solution, allowing it to fully react. Then, you titrate the remaining unreacted base with a standard acid to determine the amount of base that did not react with the acid. This allows you to calculate the concentration of the unknown acid by subtracting the moles of base that reacted with the standard acid from the initial moles of base added, providing a more accurate measurement when direct titration is challenging.)
8. Impact of Substrate Concentration on Enzyme Activity of Amylase
Research Question: How does substrate concentration affect the enzyme activity of amylase?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Explore enzyme kinetics and amylase’s role in breaking down starch.
Background Information: Discuss enzyme function, amylase activity, and Michaelis-Menten kinetics.
Variables:
Independent: Substrate concentration.
Dependent: Enzyme activity.
Controlled: Temperature, pH, enzyme concentration.
Methodology: Measure starch breakdown at different substrate concentrations using iodine test. Use different substrates or an enzyme mix to investigate enzyme specificity and kinetics.
Data Analysis: Plot rate versus substrate concentration, fit data to Michaelis-Menten equation.
Conclusion: Determine kinetic parameters and optimal substrate concentration.
Evaluation: Address data accuracy, experimental setup, and suggest further experiments.
Extension for HL: Determine kinetic parameters (Vmax and Km), explore the effect of different substrates on enzyme activity.
9. Effect of Temperature on the Solubility of Potassium Nitrate
Research Question: How does temperature affect the solubility of potassium nitrate?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Practical exploration of solubility principles and temperature dependence.
Background Information: Discuss solubility, temperature impact, and saturation point.
Variables:
Independent: Temperature.
Dependent: Solubility of potassium nitrate.
Controlled: Volume of water, purity of potassium nitrate, and measurement technique.
Methodology: Measure solubility at different temperatures using a water bath and analytical balance, consider using a wider temperature range to observe a more pronounced change in solubility.
Data Analysis: Graph solubility versus temperature, calculate the solubility curve.
Conclusion: Confirm the direct relationship between temperature and solubility.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Create and analyze a solubility curve, investigate the effect of different solvents on the solubility of potassium nitrate.
10. Investigating the Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide Using Different Catalysts
Research Question: How does the decomposition rate of hydrogen peroxide vary with different catalysts?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Investigate the effect of different catalysts on reaction rates.
Background Information: Discuss decomposition reactions, catalysts, and their role in lowering activation energy.
Variables:
Independent: Type of catalyst.
Dependent: Rate of decomposition.
Controlled: Concentration of hydrogen peroxide, temperature, and volume of solution.
Methodology: Measure oxygen production using a gas syringe with different catalysts, explore the use of different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide to determine the order of the reaction.
Data Analysis: Graph rate of decomposition versus type of catalyst, compare the effectiveness of each catalyst.
Conclusion: Determine which catalyst is most effective and why.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Calculate and compare the activation energies for each catalyst, explore the mechanism of catalysis in detail.
11. Impact of Alcohol Chain Length on the Heat of Combustion
Research Question: How does the chain length of alcohols affect their heat of combustion?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding the relationship between molecular structure and energy content.
Background Information: Discusses combustion reactions, enthalpy changes, and molecular structure.
Variables:
Independent: Chain length of alcohols.
Dependent: Heat of combustion.
Controlled: Volume of alcohol, experimental conditions, and measurement technique.
Methodology: Measure the heat released during the combustion of different straight-chain alcohols (e.g., methanol to pentanol) using a calorimeter. Ensure strict safety protocols for handling and burning alcohols.
Data Analysis: Graph heat of combustion versus chain length, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how chain length affects the heat of combustion.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations, safety measures, and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Include branched alcohols to compare with straight-chain isomers, explore the relationship between molecular structure and enthalpy of combustion.
12. Determining the Equilibrium Constant for the Esterification Reaction Between Ethanol and Acetic Acid
Research Question: What is the equilibrium constant for the esterification reaction between ethanol and acetic acid?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Practical application of chemical equilibrium concepts.
Background Information: Discusses esterification reactions, equilibrium constants, and Le Chatelier’s principle.
Variables:
Independent: Concentrations of reactants.
Dependent: Equilibrium constant.
Controlled: Temperature, catalyst concentration, and reaction time.
Methodology: Measure concentrations at equilibrium using titration or spectroscopy. Allow sufficient time for equilibrium to be reached.
Data Analysis: Calculate the equilibrium constant, graph concentration changes.
Conclusion: Determine the equilibrium constant and discuss its significance.
Evaluation: Address accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Investigate the effect of different catalysts and temperature on the equilibrium constant.
13. Effect of Temperature on Equilibrium Position of Cobalt Complex Ions
Research Question: How does temperature affect the equilibrium position of cobalt complex ions?
Recommended Level: HL
Rationale: Exploring advanced equilibrium concepts and thermodynamics.
Background Information: Discusses complex ion formation, equilibrium shifts, and thermodynamic principles.
Variables:
Independent: Temperature.
Dependent: Equilibrium position.
Controlled: Concentration of cobalt ions, ligands, and solution volume.
Methodology: Measure absorbance changes using a spectrophotometer at different temperatures. Ensure you understand complex ion equilibria before attempting this investigation.
Data Analysis: Calculate equilibrium constants at various temperatures, graph results.
Conclusion: Determine the effect of temperature on equilibrium.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
14. Investigating the Rate of Fermentation of Glucose by Yeast Under Different Conditions
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding fermentation processes and factors affecting them.
Background Information: Discusses fermentation, enzyme activity, and factors influencing fermentation rates.
Variables:
Independent: Conditions (temperature, pH, glucose concentration).
Dependent: Rate of fermentation.
Controlled: Yeast concentration, volume of solution.
Methodology: Measure CO2 production under different conditions using a gas syringe or CO2 sensor. Explore various methods to measure CO2 production accurately.
Data Analysis: Graph fermentation rate versus different conditions, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine optimal conditions for fermentation.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and safety precautions.
Extension for HL: Investigate enzyme kinetics in the fermentation process, consider the effect of different types of sugars on fermentation rate, calculate parameters like Vmax and Km.
15. Effect of Ionic Strength on the Solubility of Calcium Sulfate
Research Question: How does ionic strength affect the solubility of calcium sulfate?
Recommended Level: HL
Rationale: Exploring solubility principles and ionic interactions.
Background Information: Discusses solubility, common ion effect, and ionic strength.
Variables:
Independent: Ionic strength.
Dependent: Solubility of calcium sulfate.
Controlled: Temperature, concentration of calcium sulfate, and solution volume.
Methodology: Measure solubility at different ionic strengths using gravimetric or titration methods. Ensure precise concentration measurements. (different ionic strengths can be achieved by adding varying concentrations of an inert salt such as sodium chloride (NaCl) to the solution.)
Data Analysis: Graph solubility versus ionic strength, calculate solubility product constants.
Conclusion: Determine the effect of ionic strength on solubility.
Evaluation: Address accuracy and precision of measurements, discuss potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Research industrial applications of this principle.
16. Determining the Activation Energy of the Reaction Between Sodium Thiosulfate and Hydrochloric Acid
Research Question: What is the activation energy of the reaction between sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding reaction kinetics and temperature dependence.
Background Information: Discusses activation energy, Arrhenius equation, and reaction kinetics.
Variables:
Independent: Temperature.
Dependent: Reaction rate.
Controlled: Concentration of reactants, volume of solutions, and ambient conditions.
Methodology: Measure reaction rates at different temperatures, plot data using Arrhenius equation. Use a range of at least five different temperatures for accurate results.
Data Analysis: Calculate activation energy from the slope of the Arrhenius plot.
Conclusion: Determine activation energy and discuss its significance.
Evaluation: Address experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Explore the effect of catalysts on activation energy, investigate the reaction mechanism in more depth.
17. Impact of pH on the Rate of Hydrolysis of Starch by Amylase
Research Question: How does pH affect the rate of hydrolysis of starch by amylase?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Investigating enzyme activity and pH dependence.
Background Information: Discusses enzyme function, hydrolysis reactions, and pH effects.
Variables:
Independent: pH levels.
Dependent: Rate of hydrolysis.
Controlled: Temperature, enzyme concentration, and substrate concentration.
Methodology: Measure starch breakdown at different pH levels using iodine test or spectrophotometry. Maintain constant temperature during the experiment.
Data Analysis: Graph hydrolysis rate versus pH, identify optimal pH.
Conclusion: Determine optimal pH for amylase activity.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Explore the relationship between pH and enzyme structure, use a wide range of pH values to clearly identify the optimal pH.
18. Effect of Temperature on Viscosity of Motor Oils
Research Question: How does temperature affect the viscosity of motor oils?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Practical exploration of viscosity principles and temperature dependence.
Background Information: Discusses viscosity, temperature effects, and lubrication.
Variables:
Independent: Temperature.
Dependent: Viscosity.
Controlled: Type of motor oil, measurement technique, and experimental conditions.
Methodology: Measure viscosity at different temperatures using a viscometer. Ensure access to appropriate viscosity measurement tools.
Data Analysis: Graph viscosity versus temperature, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how temperature affects viscosity.
Evaluation: Address experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Compare different grades of motor oil, investigate the relationship between viscosity and molecular structure.
19. Investigating the Corrosion Rate of Iron in Different pH Solutions
Research Question: How does the pH of a solution affect the corrosion rate of iron?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding corrosion processes and factors affecting them.
Background Information: Discusses corrosion mechanisms, pH effects, and electrochemical principles.
Variables:
Independent: pH levels.
Dependent: Corrosion rate.
Controlled: Surface area of iron, temperature, and exposure time.
Methodology: Measure mass loss or use electrochemical methods to determine corrosion rate. Explore both acidic and basic conditions, not just acidic.
Data Analysis: Graph corrosion rate versus pH, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine the effect of pH on corrosion rate.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and safety precautions.
Extension for HL: Investigate electrochemical aspects of corrosion in more depth.
20. Determining the Water Content in Hydrated Copper(II) Sulfate
Research Question: What is the water content in hydrated copper(II) sulfate determined through dehydration?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Practical application of dehydration principles and stoichiometry.
Background Information: Discusses hydration, dehydration processes, and stoichiometric calculations.
Variables:
Independent: Mass of hydrated copper(II) sulfate.
Dependent: Water content.
Controlled: Temperature, heating duration, and measurement technique.
Methodology: Heat the hydrated compound, measure mass before and after heating, calculate water content. Emphasize the importance of accurate mass measurements.
Data Analysis: Calculate percentage of water, graph results.
Conclusion: Determine the water content in hydrated copper(II) sulfate.
Evaluation: Address accuracy and precision of measurements, discuss potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Compare results with the theoretical water content, investigate the kinetics of the dehydration process.
21. Effect of Concentration on the Rate of Reaction Between Hydrochloric Acid and Magnesium
Research Question: How does the concentration of hydrochloric acid affect the rate of reaction with magnesium?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Exploring the relationship between reactant concentration and reaction rate.
Background Information: Discusses reaction kinetics, concentration effects, and collision theory.
Variables:
Independent: Concentration of hydrochloric acid.
Dependent: Reaction rate.
Controlled: Surface area of magnesium, volume of acid, and temperature.
Methodology: Measure hydrogen gas production using a gas syringe or mass loss method at different concentrations of hydrochloric acid. Explore different methods to measure reaction rate.
Data Analysis: Graph reaction rate versus acid concentration, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how concentration affects reaction rate.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Determine the order of reaction and rate law, investigate the effect of temperature as an extension.
22. Investigating the Adsorption of Acetic Acid onto Activated Charcoal
Research Question: How does the concentration of acetic acid affect its adsorption onto activated charcoal?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding adsorption processes and surface chemistry.
Background Information: Discusses adsorption, surface area, and equilibrium.
Variables:
Independent: Initial concentration of acetic acid.
Dependent: Amount of acetic acid adsorbed.
Controlled: Mass of activated charcoal, temperature, and contact time.
Methodology: Measure the concentration of acetic acid before and after adsorption using titration or spectrophotometry. Ensure sufficient equilibration time.
Data Analysis: Plot adsorption isotherms, calculate adsorption capacities.
Conclusion: Determine how acetic acid concentration affects adsorption.
Evaluation: Address accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Compare different adsorption isotherm models (e.g., Langmuir, Freundlich), explore different types of activated charcoal.
23. Impact of Temperature on the Rate of Diffusion of Food Coloring in Water
Research Question: How does temperature affect the rate of diffusion of food coloring in water?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Exploring diffusion processes and temperature dependence.
Background Information: Discusses diffusion, temperature effects, and kinetic theory.
Variables:
Independent: Temperature.
Dependent: Rate of diffusion.
Controlled: Concentration of food coloring, volume of water, and container size.
Methodology: Measure the rate of diffusion by observing the spread of food coloring in water at different temperatures. Use a more quantitative method to measure diffusion rate.
Data Analysis: Graph diffusion rate versus temperature, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how temperature affects diffusion rate.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Investigate the activation energy of diffusion, explore the effect of different food coloring molecules.
24. Determining the Molar Mass of a Volatile Liquid Using the Ideal Gas Law
Research Question: What is the molar mass of a volatile liquid determined using the ideal gas law?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Practical application of gas laws and molar mass determination.
Background Information: Discusses ideal gas law, molar mass, and gas behavior.
Variables:
Independent: Volume of gas.
Dependent: Molar mass.
Controlled: Temperature, pressure, and amount of liquid.
Methodology: Evaporate a known amount of liquid in a gas syringe or a flask and measure the volume of gas produced. Emphasize the importance of accurate temperature and pressure measurements.
Data Analysis: Use the ideal gas law to calculate the molar mass.
Conclusion: Determine the molar mass of the volatile liquid.
Evaluation: Address accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Explore deviations from ideal gas behavior, compare results with other methods of molar mass determination.
25. Effect of Different Metal Ions on the Flame Color in a Flame Test
Research Question: How do different metal ions affect the color of the flame in a flame test?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding flame tests and emission spectra of metal ions.
Background Information: Discusses flame tests, emission spectra, and electron transitions.
Variables:
Independent: Type of metal ion.
Dependent: Flame color.
Controlled: Concentration of metal salts, flame temperature, and observation method.
Methodology: Perform flame tests on different metal salts and observe the flame color using a spectroscope if available. Ensure proper safety measures for handling flames and chemicals.
Data Analysis: Record and compare flame colors, analyze spectra.
Conclusion: Determine the characteristic flame colors of different metal ions.
Evaluation: Discuss accuracy and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Link flame colors to electron transitions and energy levels, analyze the emission spectra in detail.
26. Investigating the Electroplating Process of Copper
Research Question: How does the concentration of copper sulfate solution affect the rate of electroplating copper onto a metal substrate?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Practical application of electrochemistry and electroplating.
Background Information: Discusses electroplating, electrolytes, and electrodeposition.
Variables:
Independent: Concentration of copper sulfate solution.
Dependent: Rate of electroplating.
Controlled: Voltage, temperature, and duration.
Methodology: Perform electroplating with varying concentrations of copper sulfate and measure the mass of copper deposited. Emphasize the importance of surface preparation in electroplating.
Data Analysis: Graph rate of electroplating versus concentration, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how copper sulfate concentration affects the rate of electroplating.
Evaluation: Address accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Explore the effects of current density on plating quality, investigate the efficiency of the electroplating process.
27. Determining the Enthalpy Change of Neutralization for Strong Acids and Bases
Research Question: What is the enthalpy change of neutralization for reactions between strong acids and bases?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding thermodynamics of neutralization reactions.
Background Information: Discusses enthalpy change, calorimetry, and neutralization.
Variables:
Independent: Type of acid and base.
Dependent: Enthalpy change.
Controlled: Concentration of reactants, volume of solutions, and temperature.
Methodology: Perform neutralization reactions in a calorimeter and measure temperature changes. Emphasize the importance of insulation in calorimetry experiments.
Data Analysis: Calculate enthalpy changes, compare results.
Conclusion: Determine the enthalpy change of neutralization for different acid-base pairs.
Evaluation: Address accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Explore the enthalpy change for weak acids and bases, compare results for different acid-base combinations.
28. Effect of Pressure on the Solubility of Gases in Liquids
Research Question: How does pressure affect the solubility of gases in liquids?
Recommended Level: HL
Rationale: Exploring gas solubility principles and Henry’s law.
Background Information: Discusses solubility of gases, pressure effects, and Henry’s law.
Variables:
Independent: Pressure.
Dependent: Solubility of gas.
Controlled: Temperature, type of gas, and solvent.
Methodology: Measure the solubility of a gas in a liquid at different pressures using a pressure vessel. Emphasize safety when working with pressurized systems.
Data Analysis: Graph solubility versus pressure, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how pressure affects gas solubility.
Evaluation: Address experimental limitations and safety precautions.
Extension for HL: Explore Henry’s law in depth, investigate the solubility of different gases in various solvents.
29. Investigating the Rate of Reaction Between Potassium Iodide and Hydrogen Peroxide
Research Question: How does the concentration of potassium iodide affect the rate of reaction with hydrogen peroxide?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Exploring reaction kinetics and concentration dependence.
Background Information: Discusses reaction kinetics, iodine clock reaction, and concentration effects.
Variables:
Independent: Concentration of potassium iodide.
Dependent: Reaction rate.
Controlled: Concentration of hydrogen peroxide, temperature, and volume.
Methodology: Measure the time taken for the reaction to reach a certain endpoint (e.g., color change) at different concentrations of potassium iodide.
Data Analysis: Graph reaction rate versus concentration, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how potassium iodide concentration affects reaction rate.
Evaluation: Discuss accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Determine the rate law and reaction mechanism, explore the effect of temperature and catalysts on the reaction rate.
30. Effect of Solvent Polarity on the Solubility of Organic Compounds
Research Question: How does the polarity of solvents affect the solubility of organic compounds?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding solubility principles and solvent effects.
Background Information: Discusses solubility, polarity, and molecular interactions.
Variables:
Independent: Solvent polarity.
Dependent: Solubility of organic compounds.
Controlled: Temperature, concentration of organic compounds, and volume of solvent.
Methodology: Measure the solubility of organic compounds in solvents of varying polarity using gravimetric or spectrophotometric methods. Advise on safety precautions when handling organic solvents.
Data Analysis: Graph solubility versus solvent polarity, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how solvent polarity affects solubility.
Evaluation: Address accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Explore the relationship between solubility and intermolecular forces, use a range of solvents with varying polarities.
31. Determining the Percentage Purity of Aspirin Tablets Using Back Titration
Research Question: What is the percentage purity of aspirin tablets determined using back titration?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Practical application of titration techniques and purity analysis.
Background Information: Discusses back titration principles, aspirin composition, and purity analysis.
Variables:
Independent: Aspirin tablets.
Dependent: Percentage purity.
Controlled: Concentration of titrants, volume of solutions, and titration technique.
Methodology: Perform back titration using a standard solution of sodium hydroxide to react with aspirin, then titrate the excess sodium hydroxide with hydrochloric acid.
Data Analysis: Calculate the percentage purity of the aspirin tablets.
Conclusion: Determine the purity of aspirin tablets and compare with label claims.
Evaluation: Discuss accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Compare results with other analytical methods (e.g., HPLC), investigate the effect of tablet coating on the analysis.
32. Impact of Different Cooking Methods on the Vitamin C Content in Vegetables
Research Question: How do different cooking methods affect the vitamin C content in vegetables?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Evaluating the nutritional value of vegetables after cooking.
Background Information: Discusses vitamin C stability, cooking methods, and nutritional analysis.
Variables:
Independent: Cooking methods (boiling, steaming, microwaving).
Dependent: Vitamin C content.
Controlled: Type of vegetable, cooking duration, and volume of water.
Methodology: Measure vitamin C content using titration or spectrophotometry before and after cooking.
Data Analysis: Compare vitamin C content across different cooking methods.
Conclusion: Determine the impact of cooking methods on vitamin C content.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Explore a wider range of cooking methods and vegetables, investigate the effect of storage conditions on vitamin C content.
33. Effect of Temperature on the Rate of Rusting of Iron
Research Question: How does temperature affect the rate of rusting of iron?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding corrosion processes and temperature dependence.
Background Information: Discusses rusting, oxidation reactions, and temperature effects.
Variables:
Independent: Temperature.
Dependent: Rate of rusting.
Controlled: Surface area of iron, concentration of corrosive medium, and exposure time.
Methodology: Measure mass loss or use electrochemical methods to determine rusting rate at different temperatures.
Data Analysis: Graph rusting rate versus temperature, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how temperature affects the rate of rusting.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Explore the effect of different environmental factors (e.g., salinity, humidity), use digital imaging techniques for more quantitative rust analysis.
34. Investigating the Chromatography of Different Plant Pigments
Research Question: How can chromatography be used to separate and identify different plant pigments?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Exploring chromatography techniques and pigment analysis.
Background Information: Discusses chromatography principles, plant pigments, and separation techniques.
Variables:
Independent: Type of plant extract.
Dependent: Rf values of pigments.
Controlled: Solvent system, concentration of extracts, and chromatography paper.
Methodology: Perform paper or thin-layer chromatography on different plant extracts and calculate Rf values.
Data Analysis: Identify and compare pigments based on Rf values.
Conclusion: Determine the effectiveness of chromatography in separating plant pigments.
Evaluation: Discuss accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Compare results from different chromatography techniques (paper, TLC, column), investigate seasonal variations in plant pigment composition.
35. Determining the Iron Content in Spinach Using Spectrophotometry
Research Question: What is the iron content in spinach determined using spectrophotometry?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Evaluating the nutritional value of spinach and applying spectrophotometric techniques.
Background Information: Discusses spectrophotometry principles, iron content, and nutritional analysis.
Variables:
Independent: Spinach samples.
Dependent: Iron content.
Controlled: Sample preparation, concentration of reagents, and spectrophotometer settings.
Methodology: Prepare spinach extracts, react with a colorimetric reagent, and measure absorbance using a spectrophotometer.
Data Analysis: Calculate iron content based on calibration curves.
Conclusion: Determine the iron content in spinach and compare with nutritional labels.
Evaluation: Discuss accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Compare results with atomic absorption spectroscopy if available, explore the bioavailability of iron in different forms of spinach (raw vs. cooked).
36. Effect of Acid Rain on the Rate of Decomposition of Limestone
Research Question: How does acid rain affect the rate of decomposition of limestone?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding environmental impacts of acid rain on carbonate rocks.
Background Information: Discusses acid rain composition, chemical weathering, and limestone decomposition.
Variables:
Independent: Concentration of acidic solution.
Dependent: Rate of decomposition.
Controlled: Surface area of limestone, volume of solution, and temperature.
Methodology: Measure mass loss or gas production as limestone reacts with different concentrations of acid.
Data Analysis: Graph decomposition rate versus acid concentration, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how acid rain affects limestone decomposition.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Investigate the buffering capacity of different types of limestone, explore the impact of acid rain on other building materials.
37. Investigating the Conductivity of Ionic Solutions at Different Concentrations
Research Question: How does the concentration of an ionic solution affect its conductivity?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Exploring the relationship between ionic concentration and electrical conductivity.
Background Information: Discusses conductivity principles, ion mobility, and concentration effects.
Variables:
Independent: Concentration of ionic solution.
Dependent: Conductivity.
Controlled: Type of ionic compound, temperature, and volume of solution.
Methodology: Measure the conductivity of ionic solutions at different concentrations using a conductivity meter.
Data Analysis: Graph conductivity versus concentration, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine how concentration affects the conductivity of ionic solutions.
Evaluation: Discuss accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Investigate the effect of temperature on conductivity and compare different ionic compounds.
38. Determining the Rate Constant of a Reaction Using the Iodine Clock Method (HL)
Research Question: What is the rate constant of a reaction determined using the iodine clock method?
Recommended Level: HL
Rationale: Applying reaction kinetics principles and the iodine clock reaction.
Background Information: Discusses reaction kinetics, iodine clock reaction, and rate constants.
Variables:
Independent: Concentration of reactants.
Dependent: Reaction time.
Controlled: Temperature, volume of solutions, and reaction conditions.
Methodology: Perform the iodine clock reaction with varying concentrations of reactants and measure the time taken for the color change.
Data Analysis: Calculate the rate constant from the reaction times and concentrations.
Conclusion: Determine the rate constant of the reaction.
Evaluation: Discuss accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Investigate the effect of catalysts on the reaction rate, explore the reaction mechanism in more detail.
39. Effect of Concentration on the Color Intensity of a Transition Metal Complex
Research Question: How does the concentration of a transition metal complex affect its color intensity?
Recommended Level: SL/HL
Rationale: Understanding the relationship between concentration and color intensity in transition metal complexes.
Background Information: Discusses transition metal complexes, color intensity, and concentration effects.
Variables:
Independent: Concentration of the complex.
Dependent: Color intensity.
Controlled: Type of transition metal complex, solvent, and path length.
Methodology: Prepare solutions of varying concentrations and measure absorbance using a spectrophotometer.
Data Analysis: Graph absorbance versus concentration, apply Beer-Lambert law.
Conclusion: Determine how concentration affects color intensity.
Evaluation: Discuss accuracy and precision of measurements.
Extension for HL: Explore the effect of pH on complex formation and color, investigate the spectrochemical series with different metal ions.
40. Investigating the Kinetics of the Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide
Research Question: What are the kinetics of the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide?
Rationale: Exploring reaction kinetics and decomposition processes.
Background Information: Discusses decomposition reactions, hydrogen peroxide stability, and kinetic theory.
Variables:
Independent: Concentration of hydrogen peroxide.
Dependent: Rate of decomposition.
Controlled: Temperature, volume of solution, and presence of catalysts.
Methodology: Measure oxygen production using a gas syringe or pressure sensor at different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide.
Data Analysis: Graph decomposition rate versus concentration, analyze trends.
Conclusion: Determine the kinetics of hydrogen peroxide decomposition.
Evaluation: Discuss experimental limitations and potential improvements.
Extension for HL: Investigate the effect of light on the decomposition rate, explore the use of different catalysts and their mechanisms.
General Recommendations:
Safety Considerations: Emphasize safety protocols, especially for experiments involving flames, acids, and potentially harmful chemicals. Ensure proper waste disposal and environmental considerations.
Thorough Literature Reviews: Conduct detailed literature reviews to inform your methodologies and understand the theoretical background.
Error Analysis and Uncertainty Calculations: Highlight the importance of error analysis and uncertainty calculations in all experiments.
Real-World Applications: Relate experiments to real-world applications to enhance engagement and understanding.
Interdisciplinary Connections: Create connections to other disciplines, such as biology, environmental science, and physics, where relevant. Be careful not to go awry though as it might lead to the rejection or low score.
Use of Digital Tools: Use digital tools for data collection, analysis, and visualization to improve accuracy and presentation.
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