Mystery Matter Lab

Mystery Matter Lab [∞]

Activity Kit: Mystery Matter Lab

Objective:

Investigate a “mystery substance” by testing its physical and chemical properties, such as solubility, density, and reaction with acid. Use these observations to identify the substance.

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Materials Included in the Kit:

1. Mystery Substance:
   • Pre-prepared sample of a "mystery substance" (e.g., sugar solution, baking soda mixture, salt, or another substance). (Note: The substance should be labeled as "mystery" and should be safe for students to handle.)
2. Testing Equipment:
   • Water (for solubility test)
   • Vinegar (for reaction with acid test)
   • Balance (for measuring mass)
   • Measuring cup
   • Graduated cylinder
   • Small plastic containers or beakers
   • Stirring sticks
   • Plastic spoons
   • Funnel (optional, for pouring liquids)
3. Observation Tools:
   • Notebook and pen for recording observations
   • Worksheet for recording properties and results
   • Timer or stopwatch
4. Safety Equipment:
   • Safety goggles
   • Lab gloves (optional)

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Instructions for the Activity:

1. Group Division: Divide students into small groups. Each group will receive a sample of the mystery substance and perform the tests outlined below.
2. Test #1: Solubility Test
   • Step 1: Add a small amount of the mystery substance to a plastic container.
   • Step 2: Add water and stir.
   • Step 3: Record whether the substance dissolves completely, partially, or not at all.
   • Step 4: Write down any changes in appearance (e.g., does the liquid become cloudy, does the substance dissolve completely?).
3. Test #2: Density Test
   • Step 1: Measure the mass of the mystery substance using the balance.
   • Step 2: Measure the volume of the mystery substance (if a liquid, use a graduated cylinder; for solids, use the water displacement method).
   • Step 3: Calculate the density of the substance using the formula: Density = Mass/Volume
   • Step 4: Record the density and make observations. Does the substance feel heavy for its size? Is it denser than water?
4. Test #3: Reaction with Acid
   • Step 1: Add a small amount of vinegar to the mystery substance.
   • Step 2: Observe whether there is any reaction (e.g., bubbling, fizzing, color change).
   • Step 3: Record your observations of any changes. What happens when the acid is added?
   • Step 4: If a reaction occurs, note whether it produces gas, heat, or any other noticeable change.

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Worksheet:

Observations Table:

Property	Test Results
Solubility (Does it dissolve in water?)	____________________________
Density (Mass/Volume)	____________________________
Reaction with Acid (e.g., bubbling, fizzing)	____________________________

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Bonus Question: Can you identify the mystery substance based on your observations?

Use your test results to hypothesize the identity of the substance. Consider common substances like sugar, salt, baking soda, or a sugar solution.

Hypothesis:

Based on your tests, I think the mystery substance is: ___________________________.

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Reflection Sheet:

1. What was the most surprising result from your tests? ----
2. How did the solubility and reaction with acid help you identify the substance? ----
3. What other tests could you perform to further narrow down the identity of the substance? ----
4. What are some real-world applications of the properties you tested (e.g., solubility, density)? ----

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Timer/Checklist:

• 5 min: Set up the mystery substance and prepare testing materials.
• 15 min: Perform the solubility test and record observations.
• 15 min: Perform the density test and record observations.
• 15 min: Perform the reaction with acid test and record observations.
• 5 min: Review and identify the mystery substance based on your results.
• 10 min: Complete the worksheet and reflection sheet.
• 10 min: Prepare a brief presentation of your findings.

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Safety Reminder:

• Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes when working with liquids.
• Handle the mystery substance carefully and follow all instructions.
• Dispose of substances properly after the activity.