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Acid-Base chemistry is a topic that is extremely important on the AP Chemistry exam and can be used to explain a variety of phenomena in our bodies, other living things, water chemistry, earth science, and many other areas of science. The complexity of acid base equilibria can be mathematically daunting for students. Furthermore, the concepts of buffer systems and titration curves are easily confused if visual stimuli are not present. Vernier technology is the answer to these educational challenges. Through the use of Vernier pH and temperature probes, measurements of acids and bases can happen in the classroom as well as in the field. The graphing programs that are built into each protocol provide many ways to view and manipulate data. The Graphing program easily manipulates raw data into various derivatives, inverses, and exponential adjustments to account for just about every mathematical relationship that it out there in our scientific world.
The ease of use is the greatest triumph for this software. It only requires a few attachments tom a computer and you are on your way. I personally like to use what are called “Labquests”. These are handheld units that have the protocols programmed in to them so that you could perform an entire lab with graphed results while you are still in the field. It is great for environmental chemistry field trips testing water quality and comparing it to the existing biota. These materials are expensive but Vernier products if handled properly will last a very long time and they are extremely valuable to student manipulation of scientific data.
Check out the website listed below for a list of all the areas of science that Vernier has tools for. These instruments and protocols will help shape student minds for the types of analyses the future holds, and I am a faithful subscriber and user of them.
