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VIDEO # DESCRIPTION
1 Volumetric Techniques
Don't let inaccuracy hold you back in lab! This video introduces the proper methods for measuring precise volumes of liquid using pipets, burets, volumetric flasks, and syringes.
2 Titration
Learn how to master the art of titration in this video – with a detailed demonstration of an acid/base titration using phenolphthalein.
3 TLC-The Basics
Thin-layer chromatography is the most commonly used analytical technique in many research labs. This video walks you through every step, from setting up a developing chamber to calculating Rf values.
4 TLC-Advanced
Discover a few of the more complicated skills related to thin layer chromatography – cutting glass TLC plates, flame-pulling spotters, and using TLC stains to visualize spots.
5 Reaction Work-Up I
Extracting, Washing and Drying: It ain't over 'til it's over. Learn how to "work up" your reaction using a separatory funnel to perform a liquid-liquid extraction. This is one purification technique you don't want to miss!
6 Reaction Work-Up II
Using the Rotavap: The rotary evaporator is your friend in the lab. This video will ensure that you build a safe and productive relationship.
7 Filtration
The easiest way to separate a liquid from a solid? Filtration! Learn how to effectively carry out gravity and vacuum filtrations in this video.
8 Sublimation
From solid to gas, and then straight back to solid. This purification technique is both beautiful and useful. Find out why by watching the atmospheric pressure sublimation of ferrocene in this video.
9 Recrystallization
Recrystallization takes patience, but it's worth it! This video walks you through the procedure, from solubility tests to cold filtration, with information on one-solvent and two-solvent recrystallizations.
10 Column Chromatography
It takes considerable practice to master the art of "running a column". This video will get you started, with tips on picking appropriate conditions, packing and running a column, monitoring separation, and even making a micro-column from a pipet.
11 Using a Balance
Correct usage and maintenance of a balance is a basic skill that is essential in any laboratory procedure.
12 Melting Point Determination
Throughout your laboratory experiences, you will frequently need to assess the purity or identity of a crystalline solid. Both of these goals can be accomplished by determining a compound's melting point.
13 Using an Automatic Pipet
The most accurate method of transferring liquids less than 1 mL in volume involves the use of an automatic pipette. Learn the proper techniques for ensuring accuracy and precision in your laboratory work.
14 Making Buffers and Using a pH Meter
Many chemistry and biochemistry procedures will require you to perform a reaction at a specific pH. This video demonstrates two methods of buffer preparation and proper use of the pH meter.
15 Distillation I: Simple & Fractional Distillations
Learn how to separate or purify liquid mixtures that boil below 150°C with or without a fractionating column.
16 Distillation II: Vacuum Distillations
Do you need to purify a liquid that boils above 150°C? This video shows you how to perform a distillation under vacuum.
17 Refluxing a Reaction
Most organic reactions occur slowly at room temperature and require heat to allow them to go to completion in a reasonable time frame. Running a reaction under reflux allows you to heat a reaction without losing solvent due to evaporation and with causing an explosion.

Videos #1-10 created by Dr. Sarah Tabacco and Aaeyesha Siddiqui. Videos #11-17 created by Dr. Kimberly Berkowski and Eileen Huang.