Year 12 Chemists put to the test in national competition

How much caffeine is in coffee? How acidic are fizzy drinks? How much alcohol is there really in a can of beer? These were the questions that three members of the lower sixth were asked at the School’s Analyst Challenge.

The event was part of the national competition which tests the practical skills and chemical knowledge of budding scientists. This year’s challenge was beverage themed, and the team from Habs were tasked with evaluating the accuracy of manufacturer’s claims of caffeine quantities in instant coffee, citric acid content of soft drinks, and the percentage alcohol in beer. This required the use of various chemical and analytical techniques, both familiar and unfamiliar, which stretched their abilities and understanding. The competition also gave the pupils a chance to work in a University laboratory, experiencing a research environment and using specialist equipment.

The team from Habs had a very enlightening day, coming away with enhanced laboratory skills and a greater appreciation of the challenges faced when accurately analysing the composition of substances.

Thanks go to the Royal Society of Chemistry and the University of Hertfordshire for organising and hosting the event.