Micro-scale Techniques in Chemistry Practical
In general, organic and inorganic qualitative analysis constitutes a major bulk in curriculum of chemistry in an academic programme. It consumes a major share of chemicals used not only in rising cost of chemicals which adversely affect the practical exercises. During the chemical reactions, there will be an evolution of fumes and the contaminants which ultimately effect the environment. The awareness of eco-friendly environment is becoming a global phenomenon. It is in this context, a need has arisen which was never felt so acute before, that the laboratory chemicals to be used to a minimal level without affecting the principles, skill and understanding of them. This requires a strong desire to develop a proper set of mind from teachers, research scholars and the students. The chemical analysis by Vogel prescribes the use of about 0.2 g chemical for every test of qualitative analysis. In the modern age of sophisticated instrumentation, this needs a drastic revision.
We propose to reduce the consumption of chemicals without any conceptual deviation from the principles. It uses the same conventional apparatus but on smaller size which saves time, energy and becomes economical to a chemist while performing the experiments.
As per Vogel’s “There is no sharp line of demarcation. Only the scale of operation is reduced, while concentration remains the same. Special experimental and reliable techniques are required for handling small quantities.” Micro qualitative analysis is good for beginners but as they grasp, it should be scaled down to gradually to semi micro levels.
AIMS & OBJECTIVES:
- To make aware the chemist about microanalysis.
- To develop themind of chemist for using minimal amounts for carrying the experiments.
- The scaling down of quantities of chemicals and reagents will eventually leads to economy and also saves time, energy.
- The most important thing is that the students understand better and they develop a clear sense of observation.
- This improves the skill of the chemist and ultimately we got good quality analysts to our country which is today’s need, thereby reducing pollution and paving way to green chemistry concept.
- As the experiments are small and easy to handle which eventually leads to less breakage.
