Lesson Plan

Essential Oil Extraction Using Liquid CO2

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet
This Essential Oil Extraction Using Liquid CO2 lesson plan also includes:

When life hands you lemons ... experiment on them! Green chemistry gurus compare extraction methods for essential oils through a lab activity. Lab groups use traditional distillation and liquid carbon dioxide extraction methods, then compare the results in terms of environmental impact and product yield.

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CCSS: Adaptable
NGSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Perform the carbon dioxide extraction as a demonstration if time or safety prevent student participation
  • Incorporate phase diagrams for carbon dioxide into the activity
Classroom Considerations
  • Group students appropriately for the complex nature of the experimental procedure
  • Ensure groups use only the yellow portion of the lemon rind to allow for a maximum amount of essential oil product
Pros
  • Lab gives pupils hands-on experience with Green Chemistry Principles 5, 6, 11, and 12
  • The resource is perfect for tackling NGSS standard ESS3-4, evaluating a solution that reduces human impact on the environment
  • Teacher's guide includes all of the printable materials and answer keys needed for smooth execution
Cons
  • None
Common Core