Heat Speeds Up Reactions


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In this activity, learners investigate the effect of heat on a reaction. Learners first model molecular motion by moving their bodies (running, moving slowly) and pretending to be molecules at different temperatures, then by using groups of cut-out shapes (not provided) which get rearranged when they collide. After this introduction, three glow sticks are activated—one is put in ice water, one in warm water, and one left at room temperature for 15 minutes. A comparison of which glow stick gives off the most light gives an indication of the speed of the molecules and the number of reactions occurring. (The activity was originally written as part of a kit to be checked out of the library, but the kit is not required.)

Quick Guide


Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes

Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes

Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student

Age Range:
Ages 4 - 11

Resource Types:
Activity, Model

Language:
English

Materials List (per student)


  • 3
 glow
sticks
  • 1 
plastic 
bag 
containing 2 
circles, 
2 
squares, 
and 
2 
triangles
  • water
  • paper or notebook
  • freezer, ice water or cold water
  • beaker or other container to hold water
  • pencil or pen

Subjects


  • Physical Sciences
    • Heat and Thermodynamics
      • Heat and Temperature
    • Chemistry
      • Chemical Reactions
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Light and Optics
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Atomic Structure

Informal Categories


  • Physical Activity

Audience


To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • be mobile

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other


Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Shaw, Maisie ; Gomez, Maria

Rights:

Funding Source:

  • Camille and Henry Dreyfus Foundation, Inc.