“
The Percentage Error is a sign that questions are being raised about the accuracy of the data collected in this experiment. The following will explain why the errors occurred.
The investigation revealed that the experiment suffered from a substantial loss of energy. Nearly 85 percent of the heat that was generated by the lamp never reached the base of this stand. This was an important flaw that resulted in a reduction of the temperature increase in the water. This error would have prevented the data from being so far off the values in the literature.
Images show that the wooden lid left a small gap to accommodate the thermometer. The wooden lid also contributed to heat loss during the investigation. As evaporation was possible, it is impossible to say that no water loss occurred. However, this would reduce the amount of water in the container. The flames were described as a bluish color, which indicates that oxygen was insufficient. Carbon monoxide, rather than Carbon dioxide, is the result.
The standard enthalpy is also reduced because the reaction was not completed. This heat was taken up by the copper beaker, which should have caused the temperature to change. The specific heat capacity for copper should have been taken into account in the calculations. This was not calibrated.
This experiment also has random and systematic errors. The random errors are easier to reduce, but the systematic ones are harder. There were, of course, systematic errors in the investigation. It would be a great way to improve the accuracy of this assessment. As the table and graph show, there is a significant difference between the standard enthalpy values of combustion in literature and experimental data.
As shown in the other graph, the standard combustion enthalpy does increase directly proportionally to the total number carbon atoms present in each molecule.
This investigation could also be improved by:
You can easily avoid spilling alcohol. Make sure that no liquids spill out during the combustion.
You can also use dark-colored cardboard to prevent heat loss.
The temperature in the room used for the investigation could have been controlled better.
Stirring the water properly is essential to ensuring that heat is distributed evenly.
Wool, for example, could have provided additional insulation.
The accuracy of the estimation would be improved by using a thermometer that is advanced.
The oxygen level should be increased to prevent incomplete combustion.
The experiment could be improved by testing more alcohols.
“