Title : Energy changes in evaporation

Background

In this experiment, we will determine what type of molecule has stronger intermolecular force between
molecules by measuring evaporation. For a molecule to break free from the attractive forces of a liquid
state (and evaporate) a molecule must absorb a certain amount of energy from its surroundings.
A lot in chemistry comes down to simple attraction between opposite charges and repulsion
between like charges.This is what is responsible for the forces between molecules or intermolecular
forces.If molecules stick together more, theyll be tougher to break apart and so will need more energy
going in.
One major attractive force which holds a molecule in the liquid state is a hydrogen bond. In general,
hydrogen bonds form between molecules that contain Nitrogen, Oxygen, Fluorine, and/or Hydrogen. The
mass of a molecule can act as a dispersal force. Lighter molecules are not subjected to attractive forces
as heavier molecules are.

SAFETY:
These compounds are flammable, stay away from open flame. They also give off fumes similar
to nail polish and rubbing alcohol so work in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing in the
fumes. Look up the MSDS for Rubbing alcohol (IPA) and Acetone in
www.griffinchem.weebly.com

Materials: 3 beakers (250 ml), thermometers (3), stopwatch/clock, Acetone, water and IPA
(100 ml), paper towel

Procedure

1. Record room temperature

2. Place one drop each of the three solutions on a paper towel and record the time it took
to evaporate completely. Which evaporated fastest?
3. Place the thermometer in solution A, acetone (this is one of the compounds in nail polish
remover) record the temperature. Allow the compound to evaporate for 5 minutes on the
thermometer, record the lowest temperature observed during the five minute period.
4. Repeat step 2 for solution B, isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol).
5. Repeat step 2 for solution C, water this time allowing the water to evaporate for 8
minutes.
Data table :

1. Evaporation rate

Solution A (Acetone) B (IPA) C (Water)

Time to evaporate 1
drop ( min)

2. Temperature change

Solution Initial temperature Final Temperature Temp Change/drop

A (Acetone)

B (IPA)

C (Water)

Graph: Graph Solution Vs Delta t to compare the temperature drop of the three substances.

Conclusion: Write answers in complete sentences in lab note book.

1. Is evaporation an endothermic or exothermic process? Provide evidence and reasoning

to establish your claim.

2. What can you conclude from your data on temperature change? Which of the three has
the strongest Intermolecular force? Establish your claim with the help of your data and
show how your evidence supports your claim.