Question

a student removes a chemical sample from a reagent bottle to be used in an experiment. what should be done with any excess chemical remaining from this sample after the experiment is complete?
select one:

• check and see if anyone else can use the chemical. if not, discard in the proper waste container.
• discard the chemical down the sink under running water.
• clean a spatula thoroughly, then use it to add the chemical back into the reagent bottle.
• conduct a second trial of the experiment with the excess chemical.

Explanation:

• Discarding down the sink (second option) is unsafe as many chemicals harm plumbing/environment.
• Returning to the reagent bottle (third option) contaminates the stock.
• Conducting a second trial (fourth option) isn’t necessary or standard for excess post - experiment.
• The first option follows lab safety: check reuse first, then proper disposal.

Answer:

A. Check and see if anyone else can use the chemical. If not, discard in the proper waste container.