teacher gives his students a nontoxic powder to identify. How might you test this substance in the laboratory? Explain at least 4 tests or observations, each regarding a different property of the unknown powder, that could help identify the mystery substance. REMEMBER, this powder is NON-toxic.

Question

aaronq · Answer

1. Solubility in water -> tells you about polarity

2. Melting point -> organic molecules have a lower MP than ionic compounds

3. Taste it -> it's non-toxic, so see if it's salty or sweet, or whatever

4. Find it's density or test for its hardness.

You could switch the 4th for a better test if there are instruments in the lab.