Sixth Form Chemistry Trip
Year 13 A-Level Chemistry students visited Sheffield Hallam University STEM labs to complete an Organic required practical on making and distilling esters.
Esters are derived from carboxylic acids and alcohols, they are widespread in nature and are widely used in industry, they are responsible for the aroma of many fruits. Students were able to use the latest technology in distillation, an air condenser which saves water consumption. The desiccant they used, to remove traces of water from the organic layer, made a lovely snow globe effect in the flask.
After the practical work they were treated to taster lecture from the Chemical Engineering department, where they learned the difference between chemistry and chemical engineering.
