Laboratory Equipment

The chemicals used in a high school chemistry lab are very similar to the ones used in a professional chemistry lab. The difference that comes to play is mostly personnel using the chemicals, procedures, rate of use and the environment. When conducting experiments with chemicals, proper procedures, safety precautions and disposal are essential. With this edition of our blog we list the essential chemicals needed to operate a high school chemistry lab along with the proper procedures that you might use for storage.

The various chemicals that need to be included and excluded from your list can be quite daunting. Luckily, we have taken the time to highlight and compile a comprehensive high school chemistry lab chemical list for you. Laboratory grade or higher for these chemicals would be the preferred choice:

• Acetic Acid 

• Acetone 

• Ammonium Hydroxide 

• Calcium Carbonate 

• Calcium Chloride – Granular form 

• Copper Sulfate -  Pentahydrate 

• Corn Starch – Powder form 

• Dextrose  or Monohydrate – Powder form

• Ethanol 200 Proof

• Hydrochloric Acid 

• IKI – Iodine and Potassium Iodide Solution 

• III - Iron Chloride Solution

• Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) 70% or 99%

• Magnesium – Ribbon form 

• Methanol

• Phenolphthalein

• Potassium Chloride

• Potassium Hydroxide 

• Potassium Iodide

• Sodium Acetate or Trihydrate

• Sodium Bicarbonate 

• Sodium Borate or Decahydrate

• Sodium Carbonate or Anhydrous

• Sodium Chloride 

• Sodium Hydroxide 

• Sulfuric Acid 

• Water - HPLC Grade

• Zinc

High School Chemistry Lab Storage Best Practices

Once you have your inventory all collected, it’s a good idea to focus on the storage of the chemicals you are getting. Over here, you should apply professional laboratory level measures. You should pay attention to chemical compatibility so as to prevent any chances of causing a reaction. 

In this case, you will have to make sure that volatile substances are not placed near any compounds with which they can react. Similarly, ensure that there is proper ventilation so that no toxic chemicals can cause fume poisoning. Always label and mark the date on the packaging of the chemicals. This allows you to always be aware of the freshness or expiration of the chemical.

Additionally, these chemicals should be kept in a specially designated cabinet. In the event that you have to store flammable chemicals, you should obtain a special cabinet for these. Storage should also be done in a clean manner to avoid contamination. 

Practicing Chemical Safety in the High School Chemistry Lab

Safety in the lab should always be the number one priority, particularly when you are working with students. They are more likely to cause accidents from mishandling or just wanting to see how certain chemicals react. Make sure that all students in the lab use safety gear such as gloves, safety gear, goggles, aprons and lab coats. 

Another step that many lab teachers take is opting for substitutions for certain objects or substances. For example, to avoid dealing with mercury spills, lab teachers make use of digital thermometers. Another substance that is popularly substituted is copper carbonate. This is usually used in place of lead chromate. Similarly, some chemicals are overlooked for substances such as dish soap, which also contains enough chemicals to use for lab experiments. 

Training of students should be done to drill the basic necessities of lab safety. Many are not aware about the right way to handle chemicals, how to clean the beakers and test tubes and more. Signage can help to eliminate any confusion. Additional efforts such as including using slip proof mats on the floor to prevent any falls or spills on the floor should be taken.

Get Quality Chemicals for Your High School Chemistry Lab from Lab Pro

At the end of the day, it can be hard to find the right chemicals. It’s a good idea to work with a professional supplier so that you can get the best results possible. Additionally, working with a supplier also makes it easier for you to get replacements with ease. If you are looking for a good supplier, particularly for the chemicals mentioned in the list, get in touch with Lab Pro!

For over 40 years, Lab Pro has been committed to delivering a complete laboratory solution by offering the highest quality products, chemicals, reagents, microscopes and imaging equipment to schools and educational facilities worldwide. Come visit the biggest Lab Supply showroom in the Bay Area or contact us online or at 888-452-2776.