AbstractThis document describes the methods used in the identification, study of the properties, and synthesis of an unknown compound. The compound was identified as calcium nitrate by a series of tests. When the compound was received, it was already known that it was one of twelve possible ionic compounds. The flame test identified the presence of calcium anion in the compound. The compound tested positive for the nitrate cation using the ferrous sulfate test. At this point it was assumed that the compound was calcium nitrate. Reactivity tests and quantitative analysis comparing the unknown compound to calcium nitrate supported this hypothesis. The synthesis reactions were then carried out and analysed. Introduction The primary objective of this laboratory project was to identify an unknown compound and determine its chemical and physical properties. First, the appearance, odor, solubility and conductivity of the compound were observed and measured so that they could be compared with those of known compounds. Subsequently, the cation present in the compound was identified using the flame test. The identity of the anion present in the compound was deduced through a series of chemical tests (Cooper, 2009). At this point it was assumed that the identity of the unknown compound was calcium nitrate. To test this hypothesis, both the unknown and known compounds were reacted with five different compounds and the results of those reactions were compared. It was important to also quantitatively compare the known and unknown compounds to ensure that they were indeed the same compound. This was achieved by reacting them both with a third compound which would produce an insoluble salt which could be filtered... through paper media... for various anions. Reactivity reactions and quantitative analysis comparing the unknown compound and calcium nitrate verified this hypothesis. Calcium nitrate was synthesized more safely and effectively by combining solutions of calcium chloride and lead nitrate. MSDS data showed that the compound is a strong oxidant but is not very toxic. In addition to following standard laboratory safety measures, care must also be taken to ensure that the compound is not exposed to heat, shock, or incompatible materials listed in the MSDS that could cause a fire or explosion. References1. Tro, N. Chemistry: A Molecular Approach, Pearson, Upper Saddle River, NJ, 2009.2. Cooper, M.M., Cooperative Chemistry Laboratory Manual, McGraw-Hill: New York, NY, 2009, p. 60.3. Author unknown, Calcium Nitrate MSDS, (http://www.hvchemical.com/msds/cani/htm)01 March 2009.