Year 13 chemistry students Natalia and Gabriela have been studying the chemistry of the Transition Metals this term. One of the distinguishing properties of the transition metals is that they form highly coloured compounds.
As part of their practical course, Natalia and Gabriela synthesised the transition metal complex tetraamminecopper(II) sulfate which has a vibrant blue colour. You can see them in the photo below with their dry, purified product.
Gabriela and Natalia tell us:
“I really enjoy the practical aspect of chemistry. It enables me to utilise the knowledge and skills that I have developed over the course.”
“As an aspiring scientist, I really value the opportunities that practical work provides. It provides real life hands-on contextual knowledge and gives me a real taste of what it is like to be a scientist.”