Peer Review

An Iodine Clock Reaction

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Effectiveness:

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Overview:: A simulated experiment and animation based on the iodine clock reaction using
iodate and iodide in acetate buffers in the presence of arsenious acid and
starch.
Type of Material:: Simulation lab experiment
Recommended Uses:: Classroom demonstration to introduce the topic of kinetics and rate laws, as a
student tool for prelab preparation, and for use as a virtual lab to collect
data and calculate results
Technical Requirements:: Standard computer platform
Identify Major Learning Goals:: To study reaction rates and determine the rate law for the chemical reaction as
well as the parameters such as concentration and temperature which control the
rate.
Target Student Population:: Advanced high school and College General Chemistry
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:: Introductory chemistry course and knowledge of chemical kinetics
and oxidation-reduction reactions

Rating:
Strengths:: Very good introductory narrative section giving details of the theory, concepts,
equations and calculations involved as well as the objectives of the experiment.
The simulated experimental set-up is well-organized and clearly labeled. The
animation shows real-time experiments that replicate accurately the experimental
procedure of the laboratory. The program is interactive and allows the student
to input initial concentration or temperature variables, control the experiment
and collect experimental data related to the clock reaction. The simulation is
also quite accurate. The software allows user input for the variables involved
and simulates the clock reaction clearly.
Concerns:: The concentration range for the reagents is fixed at four possible initial
concentration values of 0.05 M, 0.1M, or 0.15 M, but that is the only
limitation.

Rating:
Strengths:: This is versatile enough to be used in a variety of settings in lab, classroom
and for individual student learning. The instructions are clear and work as
designed. The student can manipulate experimental parameters and see the effects
on experimental results. It even be used as a lecture supplement and pre/post
laboratory assignment.
Concerns:: None

Rating:
Strengths:: The software is easy to enter and use, as well as being easy to navigate and
has a consistent layout. Dynamic feedback buttons provide clear clues on the
status of the system.
Concerns:: The software does not allow the user to go back and forth from the experimental
section to the discussion without using the back button on the browser. One has
to exit the entire module and re-launch the module if needed. This can be
easily corrected by adding the appropriate link from the experiment screen to
the discussion screen. Also some pages contain graphics and videos and therefore
may take time to download.

Other Issues and Comments:: This is an excellent learning tool that can effectively enhance student
conceptual understanding of reaction rate and activation energy using the iodine
clock reaction. It can be used to supplement lecture and laboratory. The
student can control experimental conditions and collect data for further
analysis.
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