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About This Simulation
Join the project manager Marie in her goal to successfully produce biodiesel from algal oil. Be involved in a revolutionary scientific discovery that can eliminate the environmental impacts accompanied by burning coal for energy.
Learning Objectives
- Describe the reaction that yields biodiesel from oil
- Detail the procedure for producing biodiesel from oil
- Apply hazard identification skills to safe working practice in the laboratory
- Safely deploy heated magnetic stir plates as part of a protocol
About This Simulation
Lab Techniques
- Magnetic stirrer bar
- Biodiesel production experiment in fume hood
- Heating reaction mixtures on hotplate
- Transesterification
Related Standards
- Generic support for fume hood use, lab safety and good scientific practice
- Generic fume hood & lab safety
- Supports The Laboratory Safety Institute’s Laboratory Safety Guidelines
Learn More About This Simulation
This short, targeted simulation is adapted from the full-length “Chemistry Safety” simulation.
Can we turn algae to bioenergy? In this simulation, you will find out. Dive into the algae farm in Northwest Alaska and identify the main issues preventing their sustainability and environmental protection goals. Conduct a laboratory experiment in the lab safely with the help of Marie, and find a successful reaction that can convert algal oil into biodiesel.
Explore the Algae farm
Learn about the purpose of your project by diving into the algae farm and understanding the main source of harm to our environment in this day and age. You will be able to understand how the algae farm will reduce such environmental impacts that contribute to climate change.
Understand the biofuel conversion reaction
Alongside the biodiesel production experiment, learn more about the chemistry involved in the reaction. Understand the components of the algal oil, the theoretical use of the reagents chosen, and the main changes to the molecular structure required for the reaction to be successful.
Safe laboratory practice
In a virtual simulation, yes it is true that no real harm can come to you, but it is always good practice to implement the safety regulations and correct handling of hazardous chemicals no matter where you are! If you know now and are constantly reminded, you will have all of the knowledge you need to protect yourself and others in the lab by analyzing the risks with the chemicals that are required. You will be prompted to always wear the correct personal protective equipment to keep yourself safe from all potential hazards of the chemicals.
Boost STEM Pass Rates
Boost Learning with Fun
75% of students show high engagement and improved grades with Labster
Discover Simulations That Match Your Syllabus
Easily bolster your learning objectives with relevant, interactive content
Place Students in the Shoes of Real Scientists
Practice a lab procedure or visualize theory through narrative-driven scenarios
For Science Programs Providing a Learning Advantage
North Dakota State College of Science
“They did the simulation at home, then completed the in-person lab within 30 minutes, no questions asked, and passed the quiz with flying colors.”
Lecturer in Human Physiology
University of Westminster
"I saw some of the students who clearly didn’t necessarily like sitting there reading a book discover they could turn on Labster and keep up with the rest of the class because it spoke to them.
Modesto City Schools
"Having something that's engaging for the students gives teachers that opportunity to breathe and get excited again. Because they're seeing the kids light up, they're seeing the kids engage with content."
Wenatchee Valley College
"The question always is, ‘Can we demonstrate that the students are meeting course outcomes?’ Check! We can do that.”
San José State University
"We surveyed over 400 students. More than 90% thought Labster was easy to navigate, and that it was fun, but more importantly, most of them felt confident that they could execute the labs in person. And that confidence is a big deal."
FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions.
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A Labster virtual lab is an interactive, multimedia assignment that students access right from their computers. Many Labster virtual labs prepare students for success in college by introducing foundational knowledge using multimedia visualizations that make it easier to understand complex concepts. Other Labster virtual labs prepare learners for careers in STEM labs by giving them realistic practice on lab techniques and procedures.
Labster’s virtual lab simulations are created by scientists and designed to maximize engagement and interactivity. Unlike watching a video or reading a textbook, Labster virtual labs are interactive. To make progress, students must think critically and solve a real-world problem. We believe that learning by doing makes STEM stick.
Yes, Labster is compatible with all major LMS (Learning Management Systems) including Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, Moodle, and many others. Students can access Labster like any other assignment. If your institution does not choose an LMS integration, students will log into Labster’s Course Manager once they have an account created. Your institution will decide which is the best access method.
Labster is available for purchase by instructors, faculty, and administrators at education institutions. Purchasing our starter package, Labster Explorer, can be done using a credit card if you are located in the USA, Canada, or Mexico. If you are outside of North America or are choosing a higher plan, please speak with a Labster sales representative. Compare plans.
Labster supports a wide range of STEM courses at the high school, college, and university level across fields in biology, chemistry, physics, and health sciences. You can identify topics for your courses by searching our Content Catalog.