The Chemistry Investigation is often regarded as one of the most demanding yet rewarding tasks undertaken by IB Chemistry students. After consulting the scientific literature, students design their own protocol that aims to answer a unique research question using data collected over the 10-hour practical phase.

The written report for their investigation contributes 20% to their final IB grade and is a ‘one-shot’ task – they have just one chance to get it right! While this sounds intimidating, the task pulls together their skills, finely honed after a year of studying Chemistry at IB level. This year, research projects included the effect of sodium chloride concentration on the efficiency of electrolysis of Potassium hydroxide solution, how concentration of contact lens solution affects the rate of dehydration and the effect of surfactant concentration on surface tension amongst others.

While all students were very nervous for the first practical session, by the end of their 10 hours the lab was functioning like a well-oiled machine. Their research skills had developed to the extent that they could multi-task and run several experimental trials in parallel. With the practical phase completed, they are now looking forward to data analysis and report writing. Watch the video to get a feel for how they got on and to see if you would like the opportunity to study Chemistry at Saint Maur International School!