Heat Speeds Up Reactions

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.)