Just What Do You See?

Perhaps more than any other science, chemistry relies on experimentation. Part of the reason for this, is that the chemist deals with things he cannot easily see or count. Thus careful observations made during experimentation holds the key to the behaviors of these particles.
Another part of the reason lies in the fact that although matter follows general laws, many of which are already known, there are frequently many new factors involved in a chemical idea or problem. The only way to find out "if it works under this set of conditions" is to experiment and observe the results. Needless to say, identifying and controlling the existing factors, to the degree possible, is very necessary. This being true, you will begin your study of chemistry with its most important activities; experimentation and observation.

Your first experiment will involve a possible reaction between an iron nail and a sample of copper sulfate (the blue crystal) which you can disolve in water. There are two types of observations you will need to make, qualitative (descriptive - such as color) and quantitative (numeric - such as measurements). Quantitiative observations,including units, should be recorded in a table of your design. You will be observing the results of this reaction over several days. Fortunately you have a weekend to complete this. All of the necessary material is collected for you in a zip lock bag to make this even mor convienvent. You may keep these samples at home and may wish to begin them there so as not to disturb the results. Please come to class with your lab observations organized and current. Also include a five sentence conclusion that is supported by data.