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Analysis of Iron in Lawn Fertilizer: A Sampling Study

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Michael A. Jeannot

Department of Chemistry, Saint Cloud State University, St. Cloud, MN 56301-4498

J. Chem. Educ., 2006, 83 (2), p 243

DOI: 10.1021/ed083p243

Publication Date (Web): February 1, 2006

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

A novel laboratory activity in sampling statistics, suitable for students in a quantitative analysis course, is described. In this activity, students measure the percentage of iron in a commercial lawn fertilizer by simple sorting and weighing. The pooled class data is used to determine the percent relative standard deviation due to sampling error, and this is compared to a theoretical model based on sampling statistics. The experiment is simple to perform, but significant and meaningful data is generated to help reinforce the most important ideas related to sampling theory. The use of a real-world sample is particularly intriguing and meaningful to the students. Results from two semesters have consistently demonstrated both the validity and limitations of the two-component sampling theory used in the analysis.

Keywords (Audience):

Second-Year Undergraduate

Keywords (Domain):

Analytical Chemistry

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives

Keywords (Subject):

Chemometrics

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This article has been cited by 3 ACS Journal articles (3 most recent appear below).

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