Driving question : How do you use a gas chromatograph and analyse a chromatogram?

Students learn to work with the gas chromatographer (BT45i) while doing this activity. They use hydrogen gas obtained from the Hofmann apparatus. This activity is easy and fast and helps students to master the BT45i so they can use the gas chromatographer for other more challenging activities.  Hydrogen gas gives an easy to analyse chromatogram.

Topic: Chemical analysis,
Concepts: Chemical analysis, Gas chromatography, Gaseous state, Retention time,
Grade level: High School (14-18 years),
Activity type: Data logging,
Sensors: Gas chromatograph (Bt45i),
Interface requirements: Single analog sensor input,

The Student Worksheet gives investigation instructions for students.

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The Teacher Notes includes teacher commentaries such as didactical approach, exemplary questions, assignments and data analysis.

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The Science Background describes the scientific principles that underlie the activity.

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Coach Activity/Result file can be opened in the Coach 7 Program. This requires Coach 7 to be installed on your computer.

Download activity Introduction gas chromatography (hydrogen) (.cma7) Download result Introduction gas chromatography (hydrogen) (.cmr7)