Suppose a student performs this experiment and obtains a molecular weight of 70 g/mol for isopropyl alcohol. Give valid sources of error for what could have caused the molecular weight to be higher than expected.

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Author:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste
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Chapter1: Chemical Foundations
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**Question:**

Suppose a student performs this experiment and obtains a molecular weight of 70 g/mol for isopropyl alcohol. Give valid sources of error for what could have caused the molecular weight to be higher than expected.

**Discussion:**

When conducting an experiment to determine the molecular weight of isopropyl alcohol, measurement errors can occur, leading to results that differ from the expected value. Here are some possible sources of error that might cause the molecular weight to be higher than expected:

1. **Impurities in the Sample:**
   - The presence of impurities could increase the apparent weight, thus giving a higher molecular weight.

2. **Inaccurate Temperature or Pressure Conditions:**
   - If the experiment relies on gas laws, deviations from standard temperature and pressure could affect the results.

3. **Calibration Errors:**
   - Faulty or uncalibrated equipment could lead to incorrect measurements.

4. **Evaporation:**
   - Loss of material due to evaporation during weighing could lead to inaccurate results.

5. **Calculation Errors:**
   - Mistakes in calculations or using incorrect formulas could lead to erroneous molecular weight determination. 

These errors highlight the importance of careful experimental design and execution.
Transcribed Image Text:**Question:** Suppose a student performs this experiment and obtains a molecular weight of 70 g/mol for isopropyl alcohol. Give valid sources of error for what could have caused the molecular weight to be higher than expected. **Discussion:** When conducting an experiment to determine the molecular weight of isopropyl alcohol, measurement errors can occur, leading to results that differ from the expected value. Here are some possible sources of error that might cause the molecular weight to be higher than expected: 1. **Impurities in the Sample:** - The presence of impurities could increase the apparent weight, thus giving a higher molecular weight. 2. **Inaccurate Temperature or Pressure Conditions:** - If the experiment relies on gas laws, deviations from standard temperature and pressure could affect the results. 3. **Calibration Errors:** - Faulty or uncalibrated equipment could lead to incorrect measurements. 4. **Evaporation:** - Loss of material due to evaporation during weighing could lead to inaccurate results. 5. **Calculation Errors:** - Mistakes in calculations or using incorrect formulas could lead to erroneous molecular weight determination. These errors highlight the importance of careful experimental design and execution.
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