What techniques are used to dry salts in the lab?

Salts in the lab are typically dried using techniques such as evaporation, desiccation, or by heating gently.

In more detail, the first method is evaporation. This involves placing the salt solution in an evaporating dish and gently heating it. The water in the solution evaporates, leaving the salt behind. This method is suitable for salts that do not decompose upon heating. However, it's important to note that this method may not completely dry the salt, as some moisture may remain.

The second method is desiccation. This involves placing the damp salt in a desiccator, which is a sealed container with a drying agent, also known as a desiccant. The desiccant absorbs the moisture from the salt, effectively drying it. This method is suitable for salts that are sensitive to heat and may decompose upon heating.

The third method is by heating gently. This involves placing the damp salt on a watch glass or a similar flat surface and heating it gently with a Bunsen burner. The heat causes the water to evaporate, leaving the dry salt behind. This method is suitable for salts that do not decompose upon heating. However, care must be taken not to overheat the salt, as this could cause it to decompose or melt.

In all these methods, it's important to handle the salt and the equipment with care to avoid accidents. Also, the choice of method depends on the properties of the salt, particularly its heat sensitivity. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the properties of the salt before choosing a drying method.