Advanced Higher Analysis Sessions

Pupils are invited to analyse their synthesised or extracted samples to collect data for their AH Research Projects.

Visit our teaching labs to analyse your Advanced Higher chemistry project samples. The School of Chemistry will support school pupils and college students with the analysis of their synthesised or extracted samples as part of the Advanced Higher Chemistry Research Project.

Pupils can book in free of charge, and will be supported by staff and PhD students to operate the instruments and complete the analysis. Teachers are not required to attend, however are welcome.

We are currently offering pupils the following types of sample analysis,

  • Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy
  • Infrared (IR) spectroscopy
  • Melting Point apparatus
  • Thin layer chromatography (TLC) apparatus
 
Upcoming Dates for academic year 2025-26
 
Wednesday 10th December - afternoon
Tuesday 16th December - morning and afternoon
Monday 2nd February - afternoon
Wednesday 4th February - morning and afternoon
Thursday 12th  February - morning
 

 

What to prepare in advance,

  1. Think about which analysis option will give you useful information about your sample (don't just try them all). Your teacher can advise and you can research the techniques, e.g. what type of information they provide and what are the expected results from your sample.
  2. Research what solvents will be needed if doing TLC or UV-Vis with a solid sample. Do not bring these from your school, we will provide them in the lab.
  3. Only small amounts (few mgs/tiny spatula tip worth) of sample are needed. Bring these in a sensible, sealed and labelled container, e.g. glass vial. You may also bring unpurified samples or starting materials to analyse.
  4. If you have one, bring a USB stick for taking data away with you. If you do not have one, data can be emailed afterwards.

Any questions please get in touch with Dr Jenny Gracie (jenny.gracie@ed.ac.uk)

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