Alka Seltzer fizzing - determination of percent by mass of NaHCO(sub.3) in Alka Seltzer tablets: an undergraduate general chemistry experiment

Students of chemistry can learn about stoichiometry by carrying out a n undergraduate general chemistry experiment involving determination of percent by mass of sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO(sub.3), in Alka Seltzer, an over-the-counter pain reliever and antacid . Using a simple method, students measure the weight loss and use a common household material, vinegar. High school or college general chemistry students can learn from carrying out this exercise. The use of familiar materials makes the activity more interesting.