Curated OER
Determining Acids and Bases
Young scholars test various liquids and identify as acids or bases. In this chemistry and pH lesson, the students use purple cabbage indicator to test a variety of teacher-provided substances, then bring in liquids from home to test...
Curated OER
Experiments in Nanotechnology: Ferrofluids
Students explore the world of nanotechnology by synthesizing ferrofluids in a series of chemical reactions. In small groups, they follow the procedure to create the ferrofluids using precise measuring techniques. They test the resulting...
American Chemical Society
Using Dissolving to Identify an Unknown
There is a solvent called aqua regis that can dissolve gold! After observing a solubility demonstration, groups receive four known crystals and one unknown. Based on the demo, they design an experiment to determine the identity of the...
Curated OER
Fuel Cell Experimentation
With rising oil prices and increasing concerns over global warming, the pressure is on for engineers to develop alternative sources of energy. Among the new technologies being developed are hydrogen fuel cells, which young scientists...
Curated OER
Types of Chemical Reactions
Students conduct labs to gain an overview of chemical reactions. They observe examples of synthesis, decomposition, single displacement and double displacement reactions. They identify certain products by the use of litmus and splint tests.
Curated OER
The pH scale
Students list the common properties of acids and bases. They classify substances as acids or bases, by using pH and litmus tests and are able to explain the pH scale. They participate in a lab activity which reinforce their understanding.
Curated OER
Seltzer Breath
High schoolers investigate "indicator" (Bromothymol Blue or BTB) to test for the presence of certain chemicals in liquids and gases. They compare distilled water and seltzer water for presence of carbon dioxide.
Curated OER
The Importance of Water
Students explore the importance of water. They discuss why water is important and students design an experiment that evaluates the water quality and methods of improving water quality. Students perform testing and report their findings.
Curated OER
THe Decomposition of Water
Students collaborate in an experiment where they decompose water into simpler substances through the process of electrolysis. They collect, measure, and observe data and then place the data into a table. Accomodations for students with...
Beyond Benign
Catalysts and Oxygen
Here is an engaging and hands-on lesson plan that allows high school chemists to demonstrate the effects of a catalyst on various chemicals. They garner knowledge of how reactants and products differ from one another, while analyzing the...
Cornell University
Nano Interactions
Tiny particles can provide big learning opportunities! Middle school scientists explore the world of nanoparticles through reading, discussion, and experiment. Collaborative groups first apply nanotechnology to determine water hardness....
Curated OER
Determination of the percentage of Acetic Acid in Vinegar
Students determine the concentration of acetic acid when the concentration of the base with which is titrated is known. They investigate how to weigh a sample using the balance, measure volumes using graduated cylinder, explore the...