Determination of Chemical Formulas
kit #85
Relating chemical formulas to actual substances can often be a confusing and difficult challenge for students. With this activity, abstract theories are made concrete as students learn to predict the formula of a compound by comparing the amount of the compound produced when combining different ratios of reactant solutions. Students use a chemical analysis method to determine the ratio of each of the ions in the product substance’s composition. Knowing the ratio, students can determine the chemical formula.
This kit provides sufficient materials for 4 classes with 12 groups of students per class. For use with more groups per class and/or more classes, additional materials are available as Lab-Aids items 800 and 85-RC.
The methods used in this kit for determining chemical formulas are also used in Lab-Aids® kit 110R - Families of Elements.
Lab-Aids item 800 is a set of 10 Chemplates and item 85-RC is a set of the chemical solutions needed.
- Compare the results of chemical reactions.
- Predict the formulas of chemical compounds.
- Gain an understanding of percentage composition.
Content List in Determination of Chemical Formulas is as follows:
Quantity | Description |
---|---|
12 | Chemplates®, Lab-Aids® |
6 | Lead nitrate solution, Drop control bottle |
3 | Sodium oxalate solution, Drop control bottle |
3 | Potassium iodide solution, Drop control bottle |
50 | Student Worksheets and Guides |
1 | Teacher’s Guide with MSDS |
- Number of groups per class
- 12 groups per class (2 students per group recommended)
- Number of classes
- at least 4

To complete this kit requires one ~50-minute class period.