Aspirin Study
Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is probably the most used and abused non-prescription drug. Using aspirin tablets brought from home, students analyze and compare them with the Brand "X" aspirin included in this Lab-Aid. They determine the percentage of aspirin and "filler" components in a tablet, check pH and calculate the per aspirin cost. Students draw conclusions concerning which aspirins are better, which are safer, and which do nothing at all. This kit makes science more interesting because it brings "real world" questions into the classroom. Extension activities are possible with this kit. Note: Teacher and/or students must supply additional various brands of aspirin.
Details at a Glance
- 1 Day | 1 ~50 minute class period
- 1 Activity
- Accommodates 2 classes, each with 15 groups of 2 students
- Consumables service 60 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
Scientific Concepts
• Relate science to the real world
• Calculate the percent binder in tablets as well as its composition
• Determine pH of tablet solution
• Calculate the unit cost as well as cost-benefits
Guides & Student Sheets
Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.
- Full downloadable Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Downloadable Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis questions
- All materials necessary to carry out the investigation
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 1 Teacher’s Guide with MSDS
- 30 Student Worksheets and Guides
- 30 Student Data Sheets
- 1 Lugol’s Solution, bottle
- 1 “Brand X” aspirin, bottle
- 1 Dropper
- 5 Labeled Sample stock bottles
- 30 Test tubes
- 1 Vial of blue litmus paper
- 1 Vial of universal indicator paper
- 2 Drop control bottles of Benedict’s solution
- 2 Drop control bottles of Iron Nitrate solution
- 2 Drop control bottles of Sodium Carbonate solution
- Not included and needed for instruction: Aspirin.