Reflection
This lab was focused on trying to find the percentage of water in Epsom salt. It involved weighing a sample of Epsom salt and then heating it up and measuring the end result. We then compared the weight of both samples to calculate the percentage of water in the sample. This work sample addresses Self-directional skills. We were given a lab packet to follow for the experiment, but we had to fill out the lab report given to us, ourselves. This included writing down our calculations, observations, and experimental data. I’m most proud of this lab because we somehow finished the lab and lab report all in one night. Usually, we complete these labs over the course of a few weeks. College professors aren’t as easily accessible on a short-notice like high school teachers. You often have to wait until next week for the next class or for a certain day for office hours. As such, it’s pretty hard to ask questions about difficult topics. Because of this, I have had to do a lot of research online about how to do certain conversions and calculations. I often have to take the reins of my own learning and direct myself towards the right answer more frequently compared to precious school years. The most difficult part about this task was probably filling out the lab report. While the calculations for this lab were easier compared to others, it was sort of difficult trying to fit all my calculations and observations into the small provided boxes. If I could start over, I would probably insert a certain graph like I was supposed to. Apart from that though, I did everything else pretty well and it’s my highest graded lab. I specifically took this class the first semester to capitalize on the knowledge I gained last school year in high school chemistry. Taking high school chemistry really put me ahead of the game in this class. If I choose to pursue a career in the medical field, or if I want to take Chemistry 2 next semester, this chemistry class is essential. This class/labs serves as a foundation for any future chemistry classes I may take.
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