University:
California State University, Northridge
Course:
CHEM 321/L | Chemical Analysis I and Lab
Academic year:

2009
Views:

334

Pages:

1
Author:

Cierra Walker

Chemistry 321L Laboratory Notebook The primary purpose of a scientific notebook is the accurate and timely recording of observations and data. It is imperative that you develop the proper attitude toward maintaining a lab notebook, and understand just what information should be recorded in the notebook. It is important to review the procedure to be followed in each experiment prior to coming to class. It is also important to outline or set up the procedure to be followed, e.g. appropriate equations, a table for entering data, etc., however, do not copy the detailed procedure found in the lab manual. Most important, however, is that you use the notebook to record observations, weighings, volume measurements, color changes, etc., AS THEY OCCUR. Both desirable and undesirable events must be acknowledged, in brief but sufficient detail, to be able to reconstruct accurately what has happened. Prior to the start of the first experiment in lab, you should obtain a bound, quadrille-ruled composition notebook. Listed below is a guide to the proper organization of your notebook. 1. Number all pages. 2. RESERVE THE FIRST THREE PAGES FOR A TABLE OF CONTENTS. Indicate the pages where the notes for each experiment can be found. 3. TAKE ALL NOTES IN INK. Do not erase or “white out” any entries. If a mistake is made, draw a single line through the incorrect information and enter the correct data next to it. 4. Use left hand pages for scratch work; make record entries on right hand pages. 5. Date all entries. 6. For each experiment organize your entries to include the following: a. Title of experiment, including mention of technique to be used. For example, `Gravimetric Determination of Chloride'. b. Pertinent chemical or mathematical equations. c. Detailed information about exact procedure used. If a standard procedure is used you may reference it (e.g., Chem 321 Lab Manual, pp xx, Gravimetric Chloride), however you should always include detailed information about what you actually did, especially if it differs from the referenced procedure. Include all observations (e.g., description of unknown), specifics about chemicals (e.g., purity factor) and instruments used (including instrument settings, manufacturer, model, type, etc.), and any comments about events as they occur (e.g., milky-white precipitate formed). Record unknown number, if appropriate. d. All data, including any plots of data. e. Rough and final calculations. If the calculations are done on separate sheets (for example, when a computer spreadsheet program is used for the calculations or a plot of data is made), then these pages should be securely attached to the notebook in the correct place. f. Results. These should be tabulated. g. Specific remarks about experiment and results.