Fun Experiments to See Energy Changes in Reactions

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar Reaction

   • Type: It takes in heat (Endothermic)
   • What to Do: Check the temperature before and after you mix them.
   • What Happens: The temperature goes down by about 5 degrees Celsius.

2. Calcium Chloride and Water

   • Type: It gives off heat (Exothermic)
   • What to Do: Measure the temperature when you dissolve calcium chloride in water.
   • What Happens: The temperature goes up by around 10 degrees Celsius.

3. Thermite Reaction

   • Type: It gives off a lot of heat (Exothermic)
   • What to Do: Watch the heat released when aluminum powder comes into contact with iron(III) oxide.
   • What Happens: The temperature can soar over 2500 degrees Celsius!

4. Photosynthesis Reaction

   • Type: It takes in heat (Endothermic)
   • What to Do: Use a plant and check how the temperature changes in sunlight compared to darkness.
   • What Happens: In the sunlight, the plant gathers energy from the sun, which helps keep it warmer.

5. Ammonium Nitrate and Water

   • Type: It takes in heat (Endothermic)
   • What to Do: Mix ammonium nitrate with water and check the temperature drop.
   • What Happens: The temperature might lower by 5 to 10 degrees Celsius.

These experiments are a fun way for students to see and measure energy changes during different chemical reactions!