Application of Ion Chromatography to the Investigation of Real-World Samples

An experiment using ion chromatography in an undergraduate analytical chemistry laboratory is described. The students, working in small groups, are responsible for identifying a real-world system of interest and for developing a strategy to investigate that system. The students gain specific skills and knowledge about chromatography as well as more general analytical skills including sample preparation, system calibration, determination of detection limits, and data analysis. Two specific examples of experiments done by students in the class are presented: the determination of lead in hair dye and the determination of anions in orange juice.