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Analyzing Sports Drinks with Beer's Law in a Green Chemistry Lab

Analyzing Sports Drinks with Beer's Law in a Green Chemistry Lab
Contributors
Director of Chemistry | Vernier Science Education
Vernier Science Education
Image depicting a scientist measuring sports drink absorbance with a spectrometer
Summary
In this experiment, students use a Go Direct® SpectroVis® Plus Spectrophotometer to determine the concentration of FD&C Blue #1 food dye in various sports drinks through spectrophotometric analysis. By preparing dilutions of the dye and creating a calibration curve, students apply Beer's Law to measure dye concentrations accurately.

The activity emphasizes green chemistry principles by promoting the use of safer materials, minimizing waste, and substituting traditional metal ion solutions with food dyes. This reduces environmental impact while maintaining robust scientific inquiry. Students also explore how factors like solution composition can influence measurement accuracy.

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Moderation state
Published
Object Type
Laboratory experiment
Audience
High School (Secondary School)
Introductory Undergraduate
Published on
Green Chemistry Principles
Waste Prevention
Safer Chemistry for Accident Prevention
U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Quality Education
Clean Water and Sanitation
Responsible Consumption and Production
Climate Action
Learning Goals/Student Objectives
Perform spectrophotometric analysis and apply Beer's Law.
Prepare and analyze dye dilutions to create calibration curves.
Understand and implement green chemistry practices by using safer chemicals and minimizing hazardous waste.
Develop critical thinking around sustainability in chemical analysis.
Common pedagogies covered
Hands-on learning
Technology-enhanced learning
Time required (if applicable)
1 - 2 hours
Safety Precautions, Hazards, and Risk Assessment
Wear Appropriate PPE:
Always wear safety goggles and gloves in the laboratory.

Proper Handling of Solutions:
Handle all dye solutions carefully to avoid spills or staining.

Good Laboratory Practices:
Wash hands thoroughly after handling solutions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.59877/MJTE8865