Laboratory textbooks and manuals rarely illustrate or explain the results of poor laboratory techniques. Thus, students may not fully understand the reasons why it is necessary to follow protocol in carrying out laboratory experiments. Furthermore, they are often unable to diagnose the source of their mistakes. This presentation focuses on photographing errors in both atmospheric and vacuum distillation. The photography of an explosion as a result of distilling under closed conditions was not possible because it could not be done safely in our laboratories. However, a posed photograph showing that result is included in the presentation. The photographs include the consequences of errors such as not using boiling chips, and adding boiling chips to superheated solutions as well as improperly connecting water hoses. In addition, often overlooked errors such as poor clamping techniques are shown. Accompanying the gallery of errors are photographs showing properly set up equipment that allow students to check if they have set up the apparatus correctly. Finally, a series of photographs is included that can be used in prelab testing of students preparation. The students are required to examine the photographs and identify the errors in the setup/use of the distillation equipment.

Development of a rogue’s gallery that illustrates practical errors in distillation

251st National Meeting (2016)

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