Lab 12: Qualitative Analysis Challenge

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MSH Practical Laboratory Series

Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry 0620
Printable Student Worksheet
Paper 5 / Paper 6 Skills

Topic: 12.5 Identification of Ions and Gases | Student printable version

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Aim

To complete a practical investigation linked to 12.5 Identification of Ions and Gases and develop IGCSE practical skills in observation, measurement, recording, analysis and evaluation.

Learning Objectives

Use chemical tests to identify ions and gases.
Record observations accurately.
Use evidence to identify unknown substances.

Apparatus and Chemicals

Unknown salt solutions
Aqueous sodium hydroxide
Aqueous ammonia
Dilute nitric acid
Aqueous silver nitrate
Aqueous barium nitrate
Dilute acid
Limewater
Flame test equipment if available
Test tubes and rack

Safety:

Wear eye protection.
Silver nitrate stains skin and clothing.
Barium compounds and some unknowns may be harmful; use small quantities.
Follow disposal instructions carefully.

Risk Assessment Summary

Possible hazard	Safety precaution	Emergency response
Chemicals may irritate skin or eyes.	Wear eye protection; avoid direct contact; use small quantities.	Rinse affected area with plenty of water and inform the teacher.
Glassware, hot apparatus or flames may cause injury.	Handle apparatus carefully; use test-tube holders; keep bags away from benches.	Report breakages, burns or spills immediately.

Paper 5 / Paper 6 Practical Skills Checklist

I selected and used suitable apparatus safely.

I recorded observations and measurements clearly.

I used correct units and table headings.

I identified variables where appropriate.

I processed data or drew conclusions from evidence.

I evaluated the method and suggested improvements.

Method

Label each unknown clearly.
Carry out selected tests using small volumes.
Record observations immediately.
Compare observations with known test results.
Use evidence to identify each ion present.
Repeat any unclear test using a fresh sample.

Results

Unknown	Test performed	Observation	Ion or gas identified	Evidence
A
B
C
D

Additional observations:

Analysis Questions

Why should small quantities be used?

What observation confirms carbon dioxide?

How can chloride ions be identified?

How can copper(II) ions be identified using sodium hydroxide?

Why must observations be recorded before conclusions?

Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER)

Conclusion

Identify the unknown substances and justify each identification using test evidence.

Evaluation

Extension / Challenge

Design a logical testing sequence for an unknown containing one cation and one anion.

Teacher Assessment (30 Marks Total)

Criterion	Marks
Planning & Organisation	5
Data Collection & Observations	5
Processing & Analysis	10
Evaluation & Improvements	5
Conclusion	5
Total	30

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