Inversion of light polarization by sucrose hydrolysis

In this experiment you will study the acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of sucrose.

Experimental Setup

Part One

Figure 1: Experimental set-up to be used in Part One.

Changing the Light Polarization of the Laser Beam with Mirrors

In the first part of this experiment you will use mirrors to change the polarization of light produced by a laser beam. You will use:

  1. Polarizers
  2. Laser
  3. Mirrors

Verify Malus' Law

To verify Malus' law, you will use:

  1. Laser
  2. Light sensor connected to a voltmeter.

Part Two

Figure 2: Experimental set-up to be used in Part Two.

Find [α0] and [α∞]

In the first part of this experiment, you will find [α0] and [α∞] at room temperature for the He-Ne laser. You will use:

  1. Sucrose, glucose and fructose
  2. A cylindrical glass tube in which you will place your solutions.
  3. Laser
  4. Polarizers

Determine the Rate and Mechanims of Acid-Catalyzed Hydrolysis of Sucrose

In the second part, you will find the rate of the acid-catalyzed conversion of sucrose to fructose and glucose, and you will determine if the reaction is uni- or bimolecular.

  1. Sucrose
  2. Hydrochloric acid
  3. A cylindrical glass tube in which you will place your solutions.
  4. Laser
  5. Polarizers