Lab Activity: Determining the Empirical Formula

Students will work within their assigned group to determine the empirical formula by experimentation using a specified amount of a metal (magnesium) as it undergoes combustion. Students will collect the necessary data using a 12-cm ribbon of magnesium, a crucible with its cover, scale, a triangular metal, a clamp, and a Bunsen burner. The students will follow a specified procedure to calculate and figure out the empirical formula of magnesium oxide.