What should you do if you notice an unusual odor during an experiment?

When you notice an unusual odor during an experiment, reporting it to your instructor immediately is crucial. Unusual odors can be indicative of chemical reactions that are not proceeding as expected, the release of hazardous gases, or the presence of substances that could pose risks to health and safety. By alerting your instructor, you ensure that proper safety protocols are followed, which may include investigating the source of the odor, evacuating the area if necessary, or implementing additional safety measures.

In a laboratory setting, maintaining a safe environment is paramount, and the instructor is trained to handle such situations appropriately. They can provide guidance on how to proceed safely or assess whether there is a need for evacuation or other emergency response actions. Ignoring the odor, assuming it is normal, or simply trying to ventilate the area without reporting could lead to dangerous situations, potentially exposing you and others to harmful chemicals.