Solutions
Introduction:
Systems of equations can be used to solve many different kinds of problems. One application is in making solutions such as is done in chemistry.
Learning Outcomes:
- Students will be able to set up a system of equations to determine the volume of solution required.
- Students will be able to connect this activity to the way scientists make solutions.
- Students will be able to set up and solve a system of equations from the information given in the problems which describe the solutions provided and the one need to be made.
Curriculum Alignment:
Chemistry SCOS:
- 1.01 Design, conduct and analyze investigations to answer questions related to chemistry. (How a solution is made)
- 3.02 Apply mole concept. (Concentrations of solutions: percent by mass and molarity)
Algebra 2 SCOS:
- 2.10 Use systems of two or more equations or inequalities to model and solve problems; justify results. Solve using tables, graphs, matrix operations, and algebraic properties.
Classroom time required:
Materials needed:
Pre-activities:
- The students need to be familiar with setting up and solving a system of equations.
- The students need to have read the introduction to the worksheet or have learned about solutions and the vocabulary related to solutions in chemistry.
- The students need to be familiar with how a solution is made.
Activities:
Students will write and solve system of equations to solve solution problems.
Assessment:
Critical vocabulary:
- Solution
- Solute
- Solvent
- Dilute
- Concentration
- Molarity
- Percent by mass(volume)
Comments:
This activity was completed by the Algebra 2 teacher during the unit on systems of equations even though the students had not yet studied solutions in chemistry.