We have developed a new general chemistry experiment to determine the amount of salicylic acid in over-the-counter corn plasters. The experiment is inquiry based and combines both Beer's law and micro-scale extraction techniques to analyze the amount of salicylic acid in a commercial corn plaster. The experimental results are in excellent agreement with the value listed on the product label. Through this experiment, students learn how to design an experimental scheme through a set of guided inquiry prompts; prepare standard volumetric solutions; understand the theory of Beer's law; explore the chemistry of a complexation reaction; learn how to locate the optimum wavelength in a visible absorption spectrum; and perform a micro-scale extraction to remove organic inactive ingredients and impurities. During the process of data analysis, proper scientific graphing skills are also emphasized. This inexpensive experiment is well suited for any undergraduate general chemistry laboratory course.

Determination of amount of salicylic acid in corn plasters

248th National Meeting (2014)

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