Mystery Matter Lab

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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.


Here are 20 possible mystery substances that could be used in a lab activity: 

   Baking soda (NaHCO₃)
   Salt (NaCl)
   Sugar (C₆H₁₂O₆)
   Cornstarch (C₆H₁₀O₅)
   Vinegar (Acetic acid, CH₃COOH)
   Lemon juice (Citric acid, C₆H₈O₇)
   Epsom salt (MgSO₄·7H₂O)
   Washing soda (Na₂CO₃·10H₂O)
   Baking powder
   Alum (KAl(SO₄)₂·12H₂O)
   Cream of tartar (Potassium bitartrate, KHC₄H₄O₆)
   Gelatin (C₆₆H₁₁NO₁₉)
   Activated charcoal
   Starch (from potato or corn)
   Sodium chloride solution (saltwater)
   Calcium carbonate (CaCO₃)
   Magnesium ribbon
   Citric acid crystals
   Iron filings
   Copper sulfate (CuSO₄)

These substances are commonly found in everyday items, but they have distinct properties that make them interesting for testing, such as solubility, density, reactivity with acids, and other chemical or physical properties. Each can be tested in various ways to reveal more about its identity.

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)

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.

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:

  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)? ----

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.
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