Introduction to the Chemical Laboratory

The "labs" in this course will be virtual, so we won't have benefit of a "hands-on" experience. We will use videos so you can see how chemical lab procedures are done and you will get practice analyzing simulated data sets from real experiments and performing and analyzing virtual experiments online.

Some chemicals ("compounds," technically) are hazardous by virtue of being flammable, toxic, corrosive, and/or reactive. Chemical laboratories are specially designed and regulated to protect you from hazardous chemicals. For example, labs have extra high ventilation rates and fume hoods to protect from breathing toxic materials, food and drinks are prohibited to prevent ingestion of toxic materials, and goggles and gloves are required to prevent corrosive burns and absorption of toxic materials. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the hazardous properties of the materials you handle and to know and follow the appropriate precautions and safety procedures. Failure to follow safety procedures can be a cause for discipline in a work environment.

Watch these two videos to get familiar with basic chemical lab equipment and safety precautions. There will be a quiz later, so don't skip these.

Basic Chemistry Laboratory Equipment Links to an external site.

American Chemical Society Safety Video Links to an external site.

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