Mystery Matter Lab
From 2nd Book
Jump to navigationJump to search
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.
Materials Included in the Kit:
- 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.)
- 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)
- Observation Tools:
- Notebook and pen for recording observations
- Worksheet for recording properties and results
- Timer or stopwatch
- Safety Equipment:
- Safety goggles
- Lab gloves (optional)
Instructions for the Activity:
- Group Division: Divide students into small groups. Each group will receive a sample of the mystery substance and perform the tests outlined below.
- 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?).
- 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?
- 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.
Worksheet:
Observations Table:
| Property | Test Results |
|---|---|
| Solubility (Does it dissolve in water?) | ____________________________ |
| Density (Mass/Volume) | ____________________________ |
| Reaction with Acid (e.g., bubbling, fizzing) | ____________________________ |
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: ___________________________.
Reflection Sheet:
- What was the most surprising result from your tests? ----
- How did the solubility and reaction with acid help you identify the substance? ----
- What other tests could you perform to further narrow down the identity of the substance? ----
- What are some real-world applications of the properties you tested (e.g., solubility, density)? ----
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.
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.
