The Physical Chemistry curriculum for Chemical Engineering has some surface topics like Surface Tension and Adsorption Isotherms. We have prepared a POGIL ChemActivity for these topics. From adsorption experimental data for different gases and surfaces, the students can analyze each behavior. There are many types of adsorption; the simplest is the adsorption of gases on a solid. Physical and chemical adsorption are different process and can both be distinguished when analyzed from experimental data. This phenomenon is described by isotherms, a plot of the amount adsorbed versus the gas pressure at a fixed temperature. BET, Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms are represented in this ChemActivity. Methane, ethane and propane experimental data are available. The class can be developed on a worksheet so the students can compare graphics and find out the corresponding equations guided by critical questions. This exercise helps them to understand the theme and to compare easily different situations.

POGIL ChemActivities for surface topics in physical chemistry courses

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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