To see how energy changes in chemical reactions, here are a few fun experiments. These will help you understand the difference between endothermic and exothermic reactions better.

Easy Experiments

1. Burning Something:

   • Example: Light a candle or burn a strip of magnesium.
   • What to Look For: When you do this, you'll notice heat and light coming from the reaction. This shows it's an exothermic reaction. You can check the temperature of the air around it before and after to see the change.

2. Dissolving Salts:

   • Example: Mix ammonium nitrate with water.
   • What to Look For: As the salt dissolves, you’ll feel the container getting cooler. This means it is an endothermic reaction. Use a thermometer to watch the temperature drop.

3. Mixing Acids and Bases:

   • Example: Combine hydrochloric acid with sodium hydroxide.
   • What to Look For: The temperature will go up, showing that heat is released. This means it is an exothermic reaction.

Understanding Energy

To help visualize what’s happening, you can draw energy profiles.

• Exothermic Reaction: Start with reactants at a high energy level, then show products at a lower level. This shows the energy that was released.

• Endothermic Reaction: Start with reactants at a lower energy level and finish with products at a higher level. This shows the energy that was absorbed.

These hands-on experiments will help you understand how energy changes in different reactions!