An investigation into the non - primary standard nature of sodium hydroxide (NaOH): A classroom demonstration

Abstract

Samples of sodium hydroxide were exposed to air and the level of impurities absorbed was determined.
 General increase in mass of sample was found to be about 95% when exposed for about 24 hours. The
 amount of Na2CO3 content increased by about 300% and the NaOH content decreased by about 13.74%.
 This information can be used to teach the concept of non- primary standard nature of NaOH to secondary
 school students. The procedure can also be used to expose them to the idea of experimentation  in
 general.