Describe how crystals of copper sulphate are prepared.

Materials Required:
– Copper sulfate powder (CuSO₄)
– Water
– Heat source (such as a stove or hot plate)
– Container (glass or heat-resistant vessel)
– Stirring rod
– Filter paper (for filtration)
– String or wire
– Small seed crystals of copper sulfate (optional)

Experimental Procedure:

1. Preparing the Saturated Solution:
a. Take a container and add a measured amount of water.
b. Heat the water gently using a heat source until it is warm, but not boiling.
c. Gradually add copper sulfate powder into the warm water while continuously stirring. Add the powder until it stops dissolving, indicating a saturated solution (unable to dissolve more copper sulfate).

2. Cooling the Solution:
a. Allow the solution to cool slowly at room temperature. Cover the container with a cloth or paper towel to prevent dust or impurities from entering.
b. Alternatively, place the container in a refrigerator or a cool area where it won’t be disturbed. Slower cooling typically promotes the growth of larger crystals.

3. Observing Crystal Formation:
– As the solution cools, observe the gradual formation of copper sulfate crystals. The crystals will start appearing in the solution as solid formations.

4. Harvesting and Drying the Crystals:
a. Carefully remove the formed crystals from the solution using filter paper or a dry spatula.
b. Rinse the crystals gently with a small amount of cold water to remove any residual solution.
c. Place the crystals on a paper towel or a clean surface to air dry. Avoid touching them during the drying process to maintain their shape.

5. Storing the Crystals:
– Store the dried copper sulfate crystals in a dry container away from moisture to prevent them from absorbing water and losing their crystalline form.

By conducting this experimental method, one can prepare copper sulfate crystals through crystallization, allowing the slow growth of crystals from a saturated solution of copper sulfate. Adjustments in cooling rate, seed crystal introduction, and filtration can influence the size and purity of the crystals obtained.