Preparing for Laboratory Experiments

1. Read the lab procedure thoroughly to acquaint yourself with the following :

• procedure - What will I have to do?
• equipment - What are the pieces of equipment I will need to use?
• chemicals - What are the chemicals I will use?
• safety - What precautions do I need to take to be safe?
• data and observations - What will I need to look for and record as I do the lab?
• equations  - What mathematical or chemical equations will I be expected to use?
  • Do I know how to use them?
  • Equations are good to make note of because they indicate what data you will need. For example if you wish to calculate density (D = m / V) you will need mass and volume data.
• results - What am I expected to find out about during the lab?

2. Write up the title, objectives, procedure and prepare the data tables. (see How to Write a Lab Report). It is a good idea to make notes on the back of the lab sheets on such things as equations, procedure and safety.

3. On the day of the lab be sure all equipment is clean and in proper working condition. Check glassware for cracks which may cause it to fail if heated.