science experiments chemical change

68 Best Chemistry Experiments: Learn About Chemical Reactions

Whether you’re a student eager to explore the wonders of chemical reactions or a teacher seeking to inspire and engage your students, we’ve compiled a curated list of the top 68 chemistry experiments so you can learn about chemical reactions.

While the theories and laws governing chemistry can sometimes feel abstract, experiments bridge the gap between these concepts and their tangible manifestations. These experiments provide hands-on experiences illuminating the intricacies of chemical reactions, molecular structures, and elemental properties.

1. Covalent Bonds

By engaging in activities that demonstrate the formation and properties of covalent bonds, students can grasp the significance of these bonds in holding atoms together and shaping the world around us.

Learn more: Covalent Bonds

2. Sulfuric Acid and Sugar Demonstration

Through this experiment, students can develop a deeper understanding of chemical properties, appreciate the power of chemical reactions, and ignite their passion for scientific exploration.

3. Make Hot Ice at Home

Making hot ice at home is a fascinating chemistry experiment that allows students to witness the captivating transformation of a liquid into a solid with a surprising twist.

4. Make a Bouncing Polymer Ball

This hands-on activity not only allows students to explore the fascinating properties of polymers but also encourages experimentation and creativity.

Learn more: Thought Co

5. Diffusion Watercolor Art

This experiment offers a wonderful opportunity for students to explore the properties of pigments, observe how they interact with water, and discover the mesmerizing patterns and textures that emerge.

Learn more: Diffusion Watercolor Art

6. Exploding Baggie

The exploding baggie experiment is a captivating and dynamic demonstration that students should engage in with caution and under the supervision of a qualified instructor.

Learn more: Exploding Baggie

7. Color Changing Chemistry Clock

This experiment not only engages students in the world of chemical kinetics but also introduces them to the concept of a chemical clock, where the color change acts as a timekeeping mechanism.

Learn more: Color Changing Chemistry Clock

8. Pipe Cleaner Crystal Trees

By adjusting the concentration of the Borax solution or experimenting with different pipe cleaner arrangements, students can customize their crystal trees and observe how it affects the growth patterns.

Learn more: Pipe Cleaner Crystal Trees

9. How To Make Ice Sculptures

Through this experiment, students gain a deeper understanding of the physical and chemical changes that occur when water freezes and melts.

Learn more: Ice Sculpture

10. How to Make Paper

Through this hands-on activity, students gain a deeper understanding of the properties of cellulose fibers and the transformative power of chemical reactions.

Learn more: How to Make Paper

11. Color Changing Chemistry

Color changing chemistry is an enchanting experiment that offers a captivating blend of science and art. Students should embark on this colorful journey to witness the mesmerizing transformations of chemicals and explore the principles of chemical reactions.

12. Gassy Banana

The gassy banana experiment is a fun and interactive way for students to explore the principles of chemical reactions and gas production.

Learn more: Gassy Banana

13. Gingerbread Man Chemistry Experiment

This hands-on activity not only introduces students to the concepts of chemical leavening and heat-induced reactions but also allows for creativity in decorating and personalizing their gingerbread creations.

Learn more: Gingerbread Man Chemistry Experiment

14. Make Amortentia Potion

While the love potion is fictional, this activity offers a chance to explore the art of potion-making and the chemistry behind it.

Learn more: How to Make Amortentia Potion

15. Strawberry DNA Extraction

This hands-on experiment offers a unique opportunity to observe DNA, the building blocks of life, up close and learn about its structure and properties.

16. Melting Snowman

The melting snowman experiment is a fun and whimsical activity that allows students to explore the principles of heat transfer and phase changes.

Learn more: Melting Snowman

17. Acid Base Cabbage Juice

The acid-base cabbage juice experiment is an engaging and colorful activity that allows students to explore the pH scale and the properties of acids and bases.

By extracting the purple pigment from red cabbage leaves and creating cabbage juice, students can use this natural indicator to identify and differentiate between acidic and basic substances.

Learn more: Acid Base Cabbage Juice

18. Magic Milk

The magic milk experiment is a mesmerizing and educational activity that allows students to explore the concepts of surface tension and chemical reactions.

By adding drops of different food colors to a dish of milk and then introducing a small amount of dish soap, students can witness a captivating display of swirling colors and patterns.

Learn more: Magic Milk

19. Melting Ice with Salt and Water

Through this hands-on activity, students can gain a deeper understanding of the science behind de-icing and how different substances can influence the physical properties of water.

Learn more: Melting Ice with Salt and Water

20. Barking Dog Chemistry Demonstration

The barking dog chemistry demonstration is an exciting and visually captivating experiment that showcases the principles of combustion and gas production.

21. How to Make Egg Geodes

Making egg geodes is a fascinating and creative chemistry experiment that students should try. By using common materials like eggshells, salt, and food coloring, students can create their own beautiful geode-like crystals.

Learn more: How to Make Egg Geodes

22. Make Sherbet

This experiment not only engages the taste buds but also introduces concepts of acidity, solubility, and the chemical reactions that occur when the sherbet comes into contact with moisture.

Learn more: Make Sherbet

23. Hatch a Baking Soda Dinosaur Egg

As the baking soda dries and hardens around the toy, it forms a “shell” resembling a dinosaur egg. To hatch the egg, students can pour vinegar onto the shell, causing a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas.

Learn more: Steam Powered Family

24. Chromatography Flowers

By analyzing the resulting patterns, students can gain insights into the different pigments present in flowers and the science behind their colors.

Learn more: Chromatography Flowers

25. Turn Juice Into Solid

Turning juice into a solid through gelification is an engaging and educational chemistry experiment that students should try. By exploring the transformation of a liquid into a solid, students can gain insights of chemical reactions and molecular interactions.

Learn more: Turn Juice into Solid

26. Bouncy Balls

Making bouncy balls allows students to explore the fascinating properties of polymers, such as their ability to stretch and rebound.

 27. Make a Lemon Battery

Creating a lemon battery is a captivating and hands-on experiment that allows students to explore the fundamentals of electricity and chemical reactions.

28. Mentos and Soda Project

The Mentos and soda project is a thrilling and explosive experiment that students should try. By dropping Mentos candies into a bottle of carbonated soda, an exciting eruption occurs.

29. Alkali Metal in Water

The reaction of alkali metals with water is a fascinating and visually captivating chemistry demonstration.

30. Rainbow Flame

The rainbow flame experiment is a captivating and visually stunning chemistry demonstration that students should explore.

31. Sugar Yeast Experiment

This experiment not only introduces students to the concept of fermentation but also allows them to witness the effects of a living organism, yeast, on the sugar substrate.

32. The Thermite Reaction

The thermite reaction is a highly energetic and visually striking chemical reaction that students can explore with caution and under proper supervision.

This experiment showcases the principles of exothermic reactions, oxidation-reduction, and the high temperatures that can be achieved through chemical reactions.

33. Polishing Pennies

Polishing pennies is a simple and enjoyable chemistry experiment that allows students to explore the concepts of oxidation and cleaning methods.

34. Elephant Toothpaste

The elephant toothpaste experiment is a thrilling and visually captivating chemistry demonstration that students should try with caution and under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor.

35. Magic Potion

Creating a magic potion is an exciting and imaginative activity that allows students to explore their creativity while learning about the principles of chemistry.

36. Color Changing Acid-Base Experiment

Through the color changing acid-base experiment, students can gain a deeper understanding of chemical reactions and the role of pH in our daily lives.

Learn more: Color Changing Acid-Base Experiment

37. Fill up a Balloon

Filling up a balloon is a simple and enjoyable physics experiment that demonstrates the properties of air pressure. By blowing air into a balloon, you can observe how the balloon expands and becomes inflated.

38. Jello and Vinegar

The combination of Jello and vinegar is a fascinating and tasty chemistry experiment that demonstrates the effects of acid on a gelatin-based substance.

Learn more: Jello and Vinegar

39. Vinegar and Steel Wool Reaction

This experiment not only provides a visual demonstration of the oxidation process but also introduces students to the concept of corrosion and the role of acids in accelerating the process.

Learn more: Vinegar and Steel Wool Reaction

40. Dancing Rice

The dancing rice experiment is a captivating and educational demonstration that showcases the principles of density and buoyancy.

By pouring a small amount of uncooked rice into a clear container filled with water, students can witness the rice grains moving and “dancing” in the water.

Learn more: Dancing Rice

41. Soil Testing Garden Science

Soil testing is a valuable and informative experiment that allows students to assess the composition and properties of soil.

By collecting soil samples from different locations and analyzing them, students can gain insights into the nutrient content, pH level, and texture of the soil.

Learn more: Soil Testing Garden Science

42. Heat Sensitive Color Changing Slime

Creating heat-sensitive color-changing slime is a captivating and playful chemistry experiment that students should try.

Learn more: Left Brain Craft Brain

43. Experimenting with Viscosity

Experimenting with viscosity is an engaging and hands-on activity that allows students to explore the flow properties of liquids.

Viscosity refers to a liquid’s resistance to flow, and this experiment enables students to investigate how different factors affect viscosity.

Learn more: Experimenting with Viscosity

44. Rock Candy Science

Rock candy science is a delightful and educational chemistry experiment that students should try. By growing their own rock candy crystals, students can learn about crystal formation and explore the principles of solubility and saturation.

Learn more: Rock Candy Science

45. Baking Soda vs Baking Powder

Baking soda and baking powder have distinct properties that influence the leavening process in different ways.

This hands-on experiment provides a practical understanding of how these ingredients interact with acids and moisture to create carbon dioxide gas.

46. Endothermic and Exothermic Reactions Experiment

The endothermic and exothermic reactions experiment is an exciting and informative chemistry exploration that students should try.

By observing and comparing the heat changes in different reactions, students can gain a deeper understanding of energy transfer and the concepts of endothermic and exothermic processes.

Learn more: Education.com

47. Diaper Chemistry

By dissecting a diaper and examining its components, students can uncover the chemical processes that make diapers so effective at absorbing and retaining liquids.

Learn more: Diaper Chemistry

48. Candle Chemical Reaction

The “Flame out” experiment is an intriguing and educational chemistry demonstration that students should try. By exploring the effects of a chemical reaction on a burning candle, students can witness the captivating moment when the flame is extinguished.

49. Make Curds and Whey

This experiment not only introduces students to the concept of acid-base reactions but also offers an opportunity to explore the science behind cheese-making.

Learn more: Tinkerlab

50. Grow Crystals Overnight

By creating a supersaturated solution using substances like epsom salt, sugar, or borax, students can observe the fascinating process of crystal growth. This experiment allows students to explore the principles of solubility, saturation, and nucleation.

Learn more: Grow Crystals Overnight

51. Measure Electrolytes in Sports Drinks

The “Measure Electrolytes in Sports Drinks” experiment is an informative and practical chemistry activity that students should try.

By using simple tools like a multimeter or conductivity probe, students can measure the electrical conductivity of different sports drinks to determine their electrolyte content.

52. Oxygen and Fire Experiment

The oxygen and fire experiment is a captivating and educational chemistry demonstration that students should try. By observing the effects of oxygen on a controlled fire, students can witness the essential role of oxygen in supporting combustion.

53. Electrolysis Of Water

The electrolysis of water experiment is a captivating and educational chemistry demonstration that students should try.

Learn more: Electrolysis Of Water

54. Expanding Ivory Soap

The expanding Ivory Soap experiment is a fun and interactive chemistry activity that students should try. By placing a bar of Ivory soap in a microwave, students can witness the remarkable expansion of the soap as it heats up.

Learn more: Little Bins Little Hands

55. Glowing Fireworks

This experiment not only introduces students to the principles of pyrotechnics and combustion but also encourages observation, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the physics and chemistry behind.

Learn more: Glowing Fireworks

56. Colorful Polymer Chemistry

Colorful polymer chemistry is an exciting and vibrant experiment that students should try to explore polymers and colorants.

By combining different types of polymers with various colorants, such as food coloring or pigments, students can create a kaleidoscope of colors in their polymer creations.

Learn more: Colorful Polymer Chemistry

57. Sulfur Hexafluoride- Deep Voice Gas

This experiment provides a firsthand experience of how the density and composition of gases can influence sound transmission.

It encourages scientific curiosity, observation, and a sense of wonder as students witness the surprising transformation of their voices.

58. Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream

Liquid nitrogen ice cream is a thrilling and delicious chemistry experiment that students should try. By combining cream, sugar, and flavorings with liquid nitrogen, students can create ice cream with a unique and creamy texture.

59. White Smoke Chemistry Demonstration

The White Smoke Chemistry Demonstration provides an engaging and visually captivating experience for students to explore chemical reactions and gases. By combining hydrochloric acid and ammonia solutions, students can witness the mesmerizing formation of white smoke.

60. Nitrogen Triiodide Chemistry Demonstration

The nitrogen triiodide chemistry demonstration is a remarkable and attention-grabbing experiment that students should try under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor.

By reacting iodine crystals with concentrated ammonia, students can precipitate nitrogen triiodide (NI3), a highly sensitive compound.

61. Make a Plastic- Milk And Vinegar Reaction Experiment

Through the “Make a Plastic – Milk and Vinegar Reaction” experiment, students can gain a deeper understanding of the chemistry behind plastics, environmental sustainability, and the potential of biodegradable materials.

Learn more: Rookie Parenting

62. Eno and Water Experiment

This experiment not only introduces students to acid-base reactions but also engages their senses as they witness the visible and audible effects of the reaction.

63. The Eternal Kettle Experiment

By filling a kettle with alcohol and igniting it, students can investigate the behavior of the alcohol flame and its sustainability.

64. Coke and Chlorine Bombs

Engaging in this experiment allows students to experience the wonders of chemistry firsthand, making it an ideal choice to ignite their curiosity and passion for scientific exploration.

65. Set your Hand on Fire

This experiment showcases the fascinating nature of combustion and the science behind fire.

By carefully following proper procedures and safety guidelines, students can witness firsthand how the sanitizer’s high alcohol content interacts with an open flame, resulting in a brief but captivating display of controlled combustion.

66. Instant Ice Experiments

The Instant Ice Experiment offers an engaging and captivating opportunity for students to explore the wonders of chemistry and phase changes.

By using simple household ingredients, students can witness the fascinating phenomenon of rapid ice formation in just a matter of seconds.

67. Coke Cans in Acid and Base

Engaging in this experiment allows students to gain a deeper understanding of the chemical properties of substances and the importance of safety protocols in scientific investigations.

68. Color Changing Invisible Ink

The Color Changing Invisible Ink experiment offers an intriguing and fun opportunity for students to explore chemistry and learn about the concept of chemical reactions.

Learn more: Research Parent

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Science Fun

Chemical Reaction Science Experiments

Easy chemical reaction science experiments you can do at home! Click on the experiment image or the view experiment link below for each experiment on this page to see the materials needed and procedure. Have fun trying these experiments at home or use them for SCIENCE FAIR PROJECT IDEAS.

Secret Message:

Turn A Penny Green:

Make A Blueish-Green Compound

Rocket Boat:

Shiny Stuff:

Crazy Chalk:

Dancing Rice:

These Grains Of Rice Have Some Moves

Bubbling Slime:

Rubber Egg:

Make A Homemade Hand Warmer:

Making A Volcano:

Acids and Bases Can Erupt in Your Faces

Orange Fizz:

Easy Film Canister Rocket:

10 Cool Chemistry Experiments

ThoughtCo / Hilary Allison

• Projects & Experiments
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• Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
• B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College

Chemistry is king when it comes to making science cool. There are many interesting and fun projects to try, but these 10 chemistry experiments might be the coolest.

Whether you want to witness color transformations with copper and nitric acid or create a foam spectacle with hydrogen peroxide and potassium iodide, there's something here to spark curiosity in everyone. There's even a famous chemical reaction that will emit blue light and a characteristic barking or woofing sound.

Copper and Nitric Acid

When you place a piece of copper in nitric acid , the Cu 2+ ions and nitrate ions coordinate to color the solution green and then brownish-green. If you dilute the solution, water displaces nitrate ions around the copper, and the solution changes to blue.

Hydrogen Peroxide with Potassium Iodide

Affectionately known as elephant toothpaste , the chemical reaction between peroxide and potassium iodide shoots out a column of foam. If you add food coloring, you can customize the "toothpaste" for holiday-colored themes.

Any Alkali Metal in Water

Any of the alkali metals will react vigorously in water . How vigorously? Sodium burns bright yellow. Potassium burns violet. Lithium burns red. Cesium explodes. Experiment by moving down the alkali metals group of the periodic table. 

Thermite Reaction

The thermite reaction essentially shows what would happen if iron rusted instantly, rather than over time. In other words, it's making metal burn. If the conditions are right, just about any metal will burn. However, the reaction usually is performed by reacting iron oxide with aluminum:

Fe 2 O 3  + 2Al → 2Fe + Al 2 O 3  + heat and light

If you want a truly stunning display, try placing the mixture inside a block of dry ice and then lighting the mixture.

Coloring Fire

 SEAN GLADWELL / Getty Images

When ions are heated in a flame, electrons become excited and then drop to a lower energy state, emitting photons. The energy of the photons is characteristic of the chemical and corresponds to specific flame colors . It's the basis for the flame test in analytical chemistry , plus it's fun to experiment with different chemicals to see what colors they produce in a fire.

Make Polymer Bouncy Balls

Who doesn't enjoy playing with bouncy balls ? The chemical reaction used to make the balls makes a terrific experiment because you can alter the properties of the balls by changing the ratio of the ingredients.

Make a Lichtenberg Figure

A Lichtenberg figure or "electrical tree" is a record of the path taken by electrons during an electrostatic discharge. It's basically frozen lightning. There are several ways you can make an electrical tree.

Experiment with 'Hot Ice'

Hot ice is a name given to sodium acetate, a chemical you can make by reacting vinegar and baking soda. A solution of sodium acetate can be supercooled​ so that it will crystallize on command. Heat is evolved when the crystals form, so although it resembles water ice, it's hot.

Barking Dog Experiment

The Barking Dog is the name given to a chemiluminescent reaction involving the exothermic combination of either nitrous oxide or nitrogen monoxide with carbon disulfide. The reaction proceeds down a tube, emitting blue light and a characteristic "woof" sound.

Another version of the demonstration involves coating the inside of a clear jug with alcohol and igniting the vapor. The  flame front proceeds down the ​bottle , which also barks.

Dehydration of Sugar

When you react sugar with sulfuric acid , the sugar is violently dehydrated. The result is a growing column of carbon black, heat, and the overwhelming odor of burnt caramel.

Easy Science Experiments

Want something less extravagant but still fun? These easy science experiments are doable with items you likely already have at home—from creating invisible ink with baking soda to making homemade ice cream in a plastic bag.

• Equation for the Reaction Between Baking Soda and Vinegar
• A to Z Chemistry Dictionary
• Examples of Chemical Reactions in Everyday Life
• Element Families of the Periodic Table
• Exothermic Reaction Examples - Demonstrations to Try
• 10 Amazing Chemical Reactions
• Sulfuric Acid and Sugar Demonstration
• Elephant Toothpaste Chemistry Demonstration
• How to Make Copper Acetate from Copper
• Easy Chemistry Experiments to Do at Home
• 10 Cool Chemistry Demonstrations for Educators
• Understanding Endothermic and Exothermic Reactions
• Corrosive Definition in Chemistry
• Kid-Friendly Elephant Toothpaste Demo
• What Does Reactivity Mean in Chemistry?
• Kitchen Science Experiments for Kids

5 Experiments to Teach Chemical Changes to Elementary Students

Why you should teach chemical changes.

A chemical change occurs when a chemical substance is transformed into one or more other substances. I find that teaching chemical changes is a great way to teach the properties of matter because it provides students an opportunity to visually see a change, rather than just interacting with numbers and formulas. Often the best way to teach science is by bringing complex ideas to life and making it fun!

The following five experiments are my favorite ways to teach chemical changes to elementary students: 

1. Observing the Formation of Gas

This is a very easy experiment to teach a chemical change to young kids. For this experiment, collect an old soda bottle, vinegar, baking soda, a balloon, and a funnel. Have the students put two spoonfuls of baking soda into the balloon and then using the funnel, pour vinegar into the old soda bottle until it is about half full. Stretch the balloon around the top of the bottle carefully to not let the baking soda fall into the bottle. When ready, make the balloon stand up by pouring the baking soda into the bottle.

When baking soda reacts with vinegar, a gas (carbon dioxide) is created. This gas is trapped inside the bottle and balloon, causing the balloon to inflate. Students can observe how this chemical change completely changes the balloon!

2. Observe Color Changes

First, fill three glass jars halfway with water. Separately, collect food coloring of 3 different colors, a cup of bleach, vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide (do not mix). Start the experiment by having students put colorings into the water to show a physical change (color change). Next, the teacher puts a spoonful of vinegar in one glass, a spoonful of bleach in another glass, and a spoonful of hydrogen peroxide in the last glass (and don’t forget safety glasses while you do!). Have the students determine in which glass(es) a physical change occurred and in which a chemical change occurred. This will open a discussion on how they knew which mixtures prompted physical or chemical changes, with the students providing real examples from their own observations.

3. Make Orange Fizz

Another super fun (and tasty) way to teach chemical changes is to make orange fizz. All you need are oranges and baking soda. Cut the orange and dip a slice into baking soda and try it!

4. Make Instant Snow

How much fun would it be to make snow in the summer to teach science? For this fun experiment, all you need is shaving cream and baking soda. Mix about 2 cups of each in a bowl and keep adding more to get the consistency that you like. Have fun and see the chemical change right in front of your eyes! Download the free activity sheet for full instructions. 

5. Mentos and Coke

This is the most popular of all chemical change experiments of all! For this experiment, all you need is diet coke and mentos. Open the bottle of diet coke, quickly drop the mentos in, and back away quick. Kids will love watching the geyser that explodes! This always gets a great reaction out of the students and really brings chemical changes to life!

Looking for more chemistry ideas? Check out these engaging chemistry experiments!

About the Author: Jessica Fitzpatrick

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Observing chemical changes

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Try this microscale practical to explore the chemical changes in displacement, redox and precipitation reactions

In this visually engaging series of experiments, students observe and identify the chemical changes that take place in a range of reactions on a microscale. The practical features displacement, redox and precipitation reactions between various salts, including potassium manganate(VII), barium nitrate and ammonium vanadate(V).

The experiments should take approximately 20 minutes.

• Eye protection
• Student worksheet
• Clear plastic sheet (eg ohp sheet)
• Magnifying glass

Solutions should be contained in plastic pipettes. See the accompanying  guidance on apparatus and techniques for microscale chemistry , which includes instructions for preparing a variety of solutions.

• Barium nitrate, 0.2 mol dm –3
• Sodium sulfate, 0.5 mol dm –3
• Lead nitrate, 0.5 mol dm –3
• Ammonia solution, 3 mol dm –3
• Ammonium vanadate(V), 0.2 mol dm –3 (acidified with sulfuric acid)
• Hydrochloric acid, 1 mol dm –3
• Sodium hydroxide, 1 mol dm –3
• Potassium manganate(VII), 0.01 mol dm –3
• Silver nitrate, 0.1 mol dm –3
• Copper(II) sulfate, 0.2 mol dm –3
• Iron(II) sulfate, 0.2 mol dm –3
• Iron(III) nitrate, 0.2 mol dm –3
• Potassium thiocyanate, 0.2 mol dm –3
• Zinc metal granules

Health, safety and technical notes

• Read our standard health and safety guidance.
• Wear eye protection throughout (splash-resistant goggles to BS EN166 3).
• Silver nitrate, AgNO 3 (aq), 0.1 mol dm –3  is an eye irritant. Keep separate from organic waste containers. See CLEAPSS Hazcard HC087 and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB077.
• Lead nitrate, Pb(NO 3 ) 2 (aq), 0.5 mol dm –3  is a reproductive toxin, causes eye damage, causes damage to organs (especially the CNS) and is harmful to the aquatic environment. Avoid inhalation and skin contact. See CLEAPSS Hazcard HC057a and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB053.
• Ammonia solution, NH 3 (aq), 3 mol dm –3  is CORROSIVE. See CLEAPSS Hazcard HC006 and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB006.
• Ammonium vanadate(V), NH 4 VO 3 , 0.2 mol dm –3  (acidified with sulfuric acid) is a mutagen and extremely toxic if inhaled – but not by any other route. See CLEAPSS Hazcard HC009B.
• Sodium hydroxide solution, NaOH(aq), 1 mol dm –3  is corrosive. See CLEAPSS Hazcard HC091a and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB085.
• Copper(II) sulfate solution, CuSO 4 (aq), 0.2 mol dm –3  causes eye damage and is HAZARDOUS to the aquatic environment. See CLEAPSS Hazcard HC027c and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB031.
• Barium nitrate, Ba(NO 3 ) 2 (aq), 0.2 mol dm –3 – see CLEAPSS Hazcard HC011 and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB010.
• Sodium sulfate, Na 2 SO 3 (aq), 0.5 mol dm –3 – see CLEAPSS Hazcard HC098B and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB107.
• Hydrochloric acid, HCl(aq), 1 mol dm –3 – see CLEAPSS Hazcard HC047a and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB043.
• Iron(II) sulfate, FeSO 4 .7H 2 O(aq), 0.2 mol dm –3 – see CLEAPSS Hazcard HC055B and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB051.
• Iron(III) nitrate, Fe(NO 3 ) 3 .9H 2 O(aq), 0.2 mol dm –3 – see CLEAPSS Hazcard HC055C and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB052.
• Potassium manganate(VII), 0.01 mol dm –3 – see CLEAPSS Hazcard HC081 and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB073.
• Potassium thiocyanate, KSCN(aq), 0.2 mol dm –3 – see CLEAPSS Hazcard HC095A and CLEAPSS Recipe Book RB122.
• Zinc metal granules – see CLEAPSS Hazcard HC107.

Cover the table on your worksheet with a clear plastic sheet, then follow steps 1–10 below.

• Put two drops of barium nitrate solution into box 1 (at the top of the middle column). Add two drops of sodium sulfate solution to the drops of barium nitrate solution.
• Put two drops of lead nitrate solution into box 2. Add two drops of potassium iodide solution to the drops of lead nitrate solution.
• Put two drops of iron(III) nitrate solution into box 3. Add one drop of potassium thiocyanate solution to the iron(III) nitrate solution.
• Put two drops of copper(II) sulfate solution into box 4. Add two drops of ammonia solution to the copper(II) sulfate solution.
• Put two drops of ammonium vanadate(V) solution into box 5. Add one drop of hydrochloric acid, then a small piece of zinc metal to the ammonium vanadate(V) solution.
• Put two drops of iron(II) sulfate solution into box 6. Add two drops of sodium hydroxide solution to the iron(II) sulfate solution.
• Put two drops of potassium manganate(VII) solution into box 7. Add two drops of iron(II) sulfate solution to the potassium manganate(VII) solution.
• Put two drops of barium nitrate solution into box 8. Add two drops of sodium hydroxide to the barium nitrate solution. Observe, and record any changes over the next ten minutes.
• Put one drop of silver nitrate solution into box 9. Add one drop of iron(II) sulfate to the silver nitrate solution. Observe closely using a magnifying glass.
• Put two drops of copper(II) sulfate solution into box 10. Add a small piece of zinc metal to the copper sulfate solution.

Teaching notes and expected observations

The following notes explain the expected observations for each step/reaction:

• A dense white precipitate of barium sulfate forms. Barium sulfate is used as a barium meal in medicine since it is opaque to X-rays. Because it is very insoluble it is non-toxic, unlike other, soluble, barium compounds.
• A bright yellow precipitate of lead nitrate forms. Lead nitrate is a very effective pigment but it is toxic.
• A deep red colour is produced due to iron(III) thiocyanate ions. This reaction is used to test for the presence of iron.
• A deep blue colour of tetra-amminocopper(II) forms. There may also be some light blue precipitate of copper(II) hydroxide.
• Bubbles (of hydrogen) are seen. The yellow colour of the ammonium vanadate gradually changes (as the vanadium is reduced) to blue owing to the formation of the vanadium(IV) ion (VO 2+ ). The colour then changes to green due to the vanadium(III) ion (V 3+ ) and finally to lilac due to the vanadium(II) ion (V 2+ ). The changes in oxidation states of vanadium salts have been investigated for applications in battery technology.
• A greenish precipitate of iron(II) hydroxide forms. This gradually changes to the brown iron(III) hydroxide as the iron is oxidised.
• The deep purple colour of the potassium manganate(VII) gradually fades first to the brown manganese(IV) dioxide and then to the pale pink manganese(II) ion (Mn 2+ ). Manganese(II) compounds in solution usually appear virtually colourless. However, a solid manganese(II) salt is pink.
• Barium hydroxide forms. This is soluble so nothing is seen at first. Barium hydroxide is alkaline and gradually absorbs carbon dioxide from the air to form the insoluble barium carbonate. The drop takes on a hazy appearance as a skin of barium carbonate forms on the surface.
• A glittering of metallic silver forms as the iron(III) reduces the silver nitrate. This is seen clearly using a magnifying glass.
• The surfaces of the pieces of zinc turn red-brown as copper metal deposits via a displacement reaction. The blue colour of the copper(II) sulfate solution fades.

Steps 9 and 10 in the procedure both involve the displacement of a valuable, but less reactive, metal using a less valuable, but more reactive, metal. This could be used as a topic for discussion.

Observing chemical changes - student sheet

Observing chemical changes - teacher notes, additional information.

This resource is part of our  Microscale chemistry  collection, which brings together smaller-scale experiments to engage your students and explore key chemical ideas. The resources originally appeared in the book  Microscale chemistry: experiments in miniature , published by the Royal Society of Chemistry in 1998.

© Royal Society of Chemistry

Health and safety checked, 2018

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Specification

• 5.5.12 use, as qualitative detection tests, the formation of precipitates of the hydroxides of Cr³⁺, Mn²⁺, Fe²⁺, Fe³⁺, Co²⁺, Ni²⁺ and Cu²⁺ with NaOH(aq) and NH₃(aq) and,where appropriate, their subsequent dissolution;
• 5.5.13 recall the reduction of VO²⁺ (acidified ammonium metavanadate) by zinc to form VO²⁺, V³⁺ and V²⁺;
• 1.9.14 describe the test for Cu²⁺, Fe²⁺, Fe³⁺, Al³⁺, Zn²⁺ and Mg²⁺ ions in solution using sodium hydroxide solution and ammonia solution;
• 1.9.15 describe the tests for the following: chloride, bromide and iodide (using silver nitrate solution);
• The electrochemical series as a series of metals arranged in order of their ability to be oxidised (reactions, other than displacement reactions, not required).
• Mandatory experiment 1.2 - Redox reactions of group VII elements - halogens as oxidising agents (reactions with bromides, iodides, Fe²⁺ and sulfites). Displacement reactions of metals (Zn with Cu²⁺, Mg with Cu²⁺). (Half equations only required e.g. 2Br⁻…

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5 Ideas for Physical & Chemical Change: Experiments & Demonstrations They’ll Love

These ideas aren’t your average science experiments! We’re going to dig deeper with conservation of matter, CER, and a phenomenon-based science unit.

There are MANY physical and chemical changes you can observe, but here are 5 of my favorites for upper elementary. Many of these ideas include a focus on conservation of matter because the two concepts go hand in hand.

Physical changes are changes to the appearance or form of a substance, but the substance itself is not changed into a new substance. Chemical changes involve a substance changing into a new substance with different properties.

1. 🥛 Soda Surprise Investigation

This scenario is provided at the beginning of the chemical change unit . Students discuss the scenario then investigate what occurs when soda and milk are mixed. Warning: It’s pretty gross but makes for a meaningful introduction!

Try it on your own or see the unit on TpT: Chemical Change Phenomena-based Science

2. 🎈 Baking Soda & Vinegar Balloon

Take the traditional baking soda and vinegar reaction and add a balloon . When a balloon of baking soda is placed over a graduated cylinder of vinegar in a closed system , you can more easily observe the production of a gas. The reaction occurs and the balloon inflates!

There are many variations of this investigation from simple observation to experimental design to proving the conservation of matter.

This station is part of a stations set on TpT: Physical and Chemical Change Stations

3. 🌟 Glow Sticks

The glow stick is the perfect item to explore chemical change.

It’s cheap.

It’s not messy.

It’s a closed system.

Measure the mass of the glow stick before and after the chemical reaction to demonstrate the conservation of matter.

Try it on your own or see the unit on TpT: Conservation of Matter Phenomena-based Science

4. 🍬 Dissolving Sugar Cubes

Dissolving is a simple observable physical change. I like sugar cubes for ease. In this lab, students demonstrate the conservation of matter while observing a physical change.

• balance or scale
• beaker with 100 ml water
• sugar cubes
• stirring rod/craft stick
• Measure the mass of the cup.
• Add 100 ml of water to the cup.
• Measure 25 g of sugar cubes.
• Add the sugar cubes to water and stir to dissolve.
• Measure the mass of the solution. Be sure to subtract the mass of the cup.

5. 🥤 Mentos + Diet Coke Demonstration

A fun way to wrap up your unit? Do the classic Mentos and Diet Coke demonstration! 

Ask students to determine whether a physical change or chemical reaction occurred .

This one is tricky because it certainly seems like a chemical reaction similar to baking soda and vinegar, but it’s actually a physical reaction. Tiny bumps along the candy’s surface make the bonds between water and carbon dioxide easily broken, bubbling up, and resulting in that cool eruption.

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50 Chemistry Projects That Will Amaze Kids!

February 26, 2019 by Ana Dziengel 5 Comments

Chemistry projects feel like magic , do they not? If you think about some of your favorite science projects, the ones you love to try with your kids or the ones that amazed YOU as a kid, more likely than not most of them involved chemistry.

Now I know a lot of us associate chemistry with lab coats, beakers and specialty ingredients but the reality is there are so many chemistry projects you can do using very simple, easy to find ingredients, often found in your own pantry. And since these types of simple chemistry projects use relatively safe ingredients, they are perfect to try with younger kids, ie. preschool and elementary aged children! In fact I think it’s so important for young kids to have a positive association with chemistry from a young age that fosters a love of this branch of science.

When most children are finally exposed to chemistry in school, it is at the high school level where the subject turns complex quickly; hopefully giving kids a chance to have fun at young age mixing up concoctions and watching chemical reactions will help carry their interest through the more complicated days of study ahead.

This post is a GIANT compilation of  chemistry projects that would be great for the science fair, classroom demos, or at home science with your kids.

Before we get started let’s talk a little bit about what chemistry is and for parents I also included a section covering How to Do Chemistry Projects at Home. If you are a classroom teacher you can skip this section and head right to the projects here.

What is chemistry?

Chemistry is the branch of science that studies matter (anything that has mass and takes up space) and its properties, and how different substances (especially molecules and their atoms) interact, combine, and change to form new substances.

Here are some important definitions to know when working on chemistry projects:

• Element A substance that cannot be separated into any further substances. There are 120 known elements.
• Atom The smallest particle of an element
• Molecule Groups of atoms held together by a chemical bond.
• Ion  An atom or molecule that has an electric charge

While most people think of chemistry purely in terms of chemical reactions, chemistry also covers the study of the states of matter as well as the density of substances.

The five branches of chemistry are:

• Analytical chemistry
• Physical chemistry
• Organic chemistry
• Inorganic chemistry
• Biochemistry

Read more about what each branch covers here.

How to Do Chemistry Projects at Home

Many chemistry projects can be done at home using simple materials and are a great way to foster a love of science in kids! I wholeheartedly believe that a wow factor in a project engages and inspires kids to learn more. If you want to try chemistry projects at home here are some suggestions and precautions:

Safety First

Even though most of the projects in this list use safe, easy to find materials they should be used with safety precautions and under adult supervision. Why? Sometimes the chemical reaction that ensues can irritate the skin or eye, can be harmful if swallowed, or is just plain sticky or  messy and adults should be on hand to supervise use . Also be advised that there are a few projects on this list that do use materials that are unsafe for kids to handle. These projects are meant to be demonstrations only and are labeled  accordingly.

• Use household items for chemistry   The classic chemistry project that never fails to impress is the reaction of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (look for a number of variations on this classic in our Acids and Bases section) but there are lots of other great ingredients for chemistry to find in your kitchen including sugar, salt, yeast, lemons, dish soap, milk, Kool- Aid, cabbage, gelatin, and food coloring to name a few…before you order any materials online, try some projects with pantry essentials.
• Safety Goggles
• Large plastic beakers
• Prepare for mess Since a lot of chemistry involves reactions and the ensuing mess, be sure to choose a place in your home that you can easily clean up and where you won’t worry about getting dirty. A patio, breakfast area, or the garage are great choices.
• Generous work area Be sure to have a large table available so everyone has plenty of room to work and/or view projects without bumping into each other.
• Access to Water Clean up is always easier with water at the ready! Choose a location near a hose or shop sink.

Managing Messes

• Hose it down  Depending on the project I suggest doing super messy chemical reactions outside. That way spills can be hosed down easily.
• Painter’s Tarp & Trays  If you cannot go outside a large plastic painter’s tarp is a great way to contain spills and mess. I also highly recommend doing projects on trays or cookie sheets. The raised edges help contain bubbly brews and are easy to dump out and wash.
• Dump station Have a bucket nearby to act as dump station for liquid reactions. Bring it around a table and dump at each station.
• Think about disposal Vinegar kills grass! Slime bits clogs drains! Be sure to consider where you can dump out the liquids safely.

Chemistry Projects for Kids

The following chemistry projects for kids are sorted by topic: Chemical Reactions, Acids and Bases, Carbon Reactions, Chromatography, Colloids & Solutions, Polymers,  and Crystals.

Please note that many if these projects could fit in two or more categories in this post as they demonstrate various scientific and chemical processes. I only classified them once on this list.

Chemistry Projects with Chemical Reactions 

What is a chemical reaction.

Chemical reactions occur when the chemical bonds in a substance are either destroyed or created. In other words the bonds in a molecule are broken during a chemical reaction and the atoms rearranged to create new molecules. Interestingly enough the number of original atoms does not change during the reaction, they are simply reconfigured.

An easy way to explain chemical reactions to kids is to use this analogy: Atoms are like letters, molecules are like words. Chemistry is like taking apart words and rearranging the letters to form a new word.

Read more about chemical reactions here.

Chemical Reactions Projects:

1. milk painting, 2. citrus battery, 3. elephant toothpaste.

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4. Density Lava Lamps

To make a density lava lamp fill a plastic bottle with the following liquids: Clear corn syrup, water with a few drops of food coloring, and  layer of vegetable oil. Be sure to leave a space at the top of the bottle. Wait until the liquids settle then add in a tablet of extra strength alka seltzer. Watch as the alka seltzer and water react and bubble up through the oil layer.   To see this in a  step by step video check out this video (Pssst this is one of our students!!!)

5. Plastic Milk   and Curds & Whey Experiment

6 . color mixing.

Pour water into three clear plastic cups, then add blue, red, and yellow food coloring to each. Have an additional cup full of uncolored water available as well. Give your child an empty ice cube tray and pipettes and let them create different colors by mixing different ratios of two different primary colors in each ice cube compartment. The secondary colors are new colors created from two primary colors. This is a simple visual of how chemical reactions work.

7. Chemistry Clock

8. blow balloons with yeast and sugar, 9. shiny pennies.

• Collect dirty tarnished pennies.
• Pour different acidic liquids into shallow containers. Try vinegar, salsa, lemon & lime juice.
• Add a teaspoon of salt to each container and stir to combine.
• Place a handful of pennies in each container and soak for 5 minutes.
• Remove them from the solution and rinse in soapy water. Let dry on separate paper towels.
• Compare the results! Which ones are shiniest? Which are dull? Did any turn green?

Acids are corrosive and sour tasting. Liquids such as vinegar, lemon juice, and tomato juice are acids. Pennies are made from copper which tarnishes (turns dark) when exposed to oxygen over time. Placing the copper pennies in an acid will clean the copper oxide off them and make them shiny again.

Learn about Acids and Bases

Most liquids are either an acid or a base. Liquids with lots of hydrogen ions in them are considered acids. Liquids with many hydroxide ions are bases. Scientists use a scale called the ph scale to measure how acidic or basic a liquid is. The more hydrogen ions in a liquid the more acidic it is and ranks low on the ph scale. The more hydroxide ions in a liquid the more basic it is and ranks high on the ph scale.  You can see what that looks like here.

When acids and bases are mixed chemical reactions occur and the solution becomes neutralized.

Acid and Bases Projects:

1. baking soda & vinegar volcano, 2. lemon volcano, 3. the colorful cabbage juice science experiment   and acid base experiment with cabbage, 4. dancing rice, 5. green eggs & ham, 6. bubbly citric acid brew , 7. baking soda vs baking powder science experiment, 8. exploding bags, 9. rainbow rubber eggs , 10. surprise eggs  , 11. rainbow wizard’s brew, chemistry projects with fire (carbon reactions).

Carbon is the most important element for life. Chemicals that contain carbon are called organic compounds.  Carbon has two main forms: The first is in the hard form of diamonds and graphite, and the second is the impure form found in charcoal, coal and soot.

SAFTEY WARNING: Carbon reactions are always fascinating to watch however the presence of fire means that these experiments must be supervised by adults at all times!  

Carbon Reactions Projects:

1. smoking fingers, 2. fire snake, 3. silver egg, 4. invisible ink, chromatography.

Chromatography is the process of separating mixtures. We usually think of it in terms of color hence the prefix -chroma, however in chemistry is means simply a method of separating mixtures by letting them slowly move past each other. It applies to both liquids and gasses.  This is wonderful in-depth explanation of chromatography.

Chromatography Projects:

1. chromatography  .

In this project you will separate the color black into other colors. Fold a coffee filter in half. Fold in half two more times until you have a triangular shape. Color the tip of the coffee filter with washable black marker. Get a good coat of ink on the filter. Add a small amount of water to a plastic cup. Place the black tip of the coffee filter in the cup Wait and observe. Come back to the filter after an hour or two and see what happens to the ink. As the coffee filter absorbs water through capillary action, the black ink moves through the filter and is separated by the water into other colors. You should see blue, green and even red as the water separates the ink.

2. Chromatography Flowers

3. chromatography art, 4. chromatography bags, colloids and solutions/solubility.

Colloids and Solutions are two types of homogenous mixtures.

• Colloids are mixtures in which a small particles of a substance are suspended throughout another substance but not chemically bonded. They are stable though and do not separate. Examples of colloids are gelatin, butter, mayonnaise, fog and smoke.
• Solutions are mixtures in which the particles of one substance are completely dissolved in another substance. The solute is the substance being dissolved and the solvent is the substance doing the dissolving. An example of a solution is saltwater.

If you want a more in-depth primer on solutions and colloids hop over here .

Colloid Projects:

1. colloid examples, 2.  oobleck  , 3. make butter , 4. gelatin streaking, solutions/solubility projects:, 5. ice sculptures , 6. ice cream in a bag.

A printable of the science facts at play here

7. Skittles Science

8. magical water blossoms  <span data-mce-type=”bookmark” style=”display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;” class=”mce_selres_start”></span>, 9. diffusion art, 10. paint solubility  , 11. bleeding blossoms  .

A polymer is a substance made up of a long chain of molecules.  Polymers are typically flexible materials like plastic or gum.

The classic polymer kids LOVE to make is slime! Glue is already a polymer but when combined with sodium tetraborate (borax ) the protein molecules of the glue and the borate ions crosslink, making it harder for the molecules to move and forming the gooey, sticky, substance we know as slime.

Other polymers you are probably familiar with are plastic bags, balloons, instant snow, and even the powdery substance found in diapers that expands when wet.

Polymer Projects:

1. best basic slime  .

Bonus: Get the Science Behind Slime printable here

2. Heat Sensitive Slime

3. diy bouncy balls, 4. magic plastic bag experiment, 5. instant terrariums, 6. how to make paper, 7. skewer through balloon , 8. dry erase figure   and dry erase drawings, 9. recycled plastic flowers.

Crystals are a type of material that is formed by patterns of repeating molecules. There are four types of chemical bonds in crystals and therefore four categories of crystals. These are: Covalent, Molecular, Metallic, and Ionic Crystals. You can grow crystals by mixing up a super saturated solution (usually with a type of salt and water) and letting it settle over time so crystals will form. Check out the various types of easy to grow crystal below and go here to read more about the science of crystals .

Crystals Projects:

1. classic borax crystals , 2. overnight crystal garden, 3. egg geodes, 4. crystal wind catchers, 5. crystal landscapes, 6. candy geodes , 7. salt crystals, conclusion & more.

Alright you guys, do you feel like you have some good project ideas for exploring chemistry with kids? Many of these will make greats science fair projects. Be sure to start with them as a topic then start asking questions, form a hypotheses, and do some experiments.

Now I have to admit that I really fell in love with chemistry projects as an adult. Working with kids in camp, after school, and with my own kids at home I’ve had the chance to try fun chemistry projects and discovered that I love watching chemical reactions AND the reactions on the faces of kids and bystanders during demonstration or project!

If you have kids who fall in love with this branch of science please do check out the incredible book series Elements , Molecules , and Reactions by Theodore Gray (see the series in our Amazon science ideas list here ) The books are stunning, informative, easy to understand and, wait for it…funny!

Another valuable resource for kids who love chemistry is Mel Science’s Chemistry subscription box. They send you a starter kit for free with all the materials you’ll need and then each month you get a new chemistry experiment delivered to your door! This is great product because a lot of specialty chemistry ingredients are hard to find and these kits simplify getting the materials you need! Check it out here:

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February 26, 2019 at 10:31 pm

These were some really awesome projects. I really liked the Citrus Battery projects. It seems simple and easy for a young kid. I wish schools should give more focus to such experiments instead of shoving down the theoretical knowledge down the throat of young kids.

Carol Biggs says

March 1, 2019 at 4:58 am

Is all of this info available on book form?

Ana Dziengel says

March 6, 2019 at 5:49 am

Not at this time but that’s a great idea!

Betsy Mitten says

March 5, 2019 at 10:43 am

Thank you for making this fantastic collection of experiments with clear directions and easy to understand explanations of the science behind the fun! I know I’ll refer to this list often. I especially appreciate the way the experiments are classified/organized. I teach art with science connections and we are already planning on chalkboard and magnetic slime :). I’ll be sure to tag Babble Dabble Do when I post photos of work inspired by this on target collection!

Kyra Rodriguez says

March 5, 2019 at 10:54 pm

These are all great ideas! I’m pretty sure the kids will have fun and love this activities

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Color Change Chemistry Projects – Chemical Reactions and More

Color change chemistry projects are among the most interesting and entertaining science experiments . Color change chemical reactions visually indicate chemical changes in matter. They illustrate pH changes, acid-base reactions, oxidation-reduction, and other key chemistry concepts. Other projects change color due to conformation changes, light emission, and simply mixing colors. There’s a color change chemistry project perfect for any occasion.

Here is a collection of color change projects.

Is Color Change a Chemical Change?

Color change often indicates a chemical change or chemical reaction, but sometimes colors change without altering the composition of a substance. For example, mixing blue and yellow food coloring makes a green liquid, but no chemical change occurs.

Color Change Chemical Reactions

These reactions are chemical changes. They include acid-base reactions, redox reactions, and precipitate formation.

• Briggs-Rauscher Oscillating Clock : A solution oscillates between colorless, amber, and blue in this classic chemistry demonstration.
• Blue Bottle Chemical Reaction : In this project, a blue liquid turns colorless before turning blue again.
• Chemical Traffic Light : This variation of the blue bottle reaction uses indigo carmine. The solution shifts colors between green, yellow, and red.
• Water to Wine to Milk to Beer : Pour liquid from one glass to another and watch it change into what looks like water, wine, milk, and finally beer.
• Two Color Chemiluminescence : Watch a solution produce a red glow and then a blue glow.
• Gatorade and Drain Cleaner : This variation of the blue bottle demonstration uses Gatorade and drain cleaner instead of chemicals from a lab. The colors you get depend on the products you choose.
• Red Cabbage Juice pH Indicator : Cabbage juice changes color depending on a liquid’s pH. The color change covers the entire rainbow.
• Fake Blood Chemical Reaction : Reacting an iron(III) solution and potassium thiocyanate solution makes the iron thiocyanate complex, which resembles fake blood.
• Color Change Violets : Change the color of violets or other flowers using household ammonia.
• Color Changing Chemical Volcano : This chemical volcano erupts lava that changes colors from purple to orange.
• Bubbles That Change Colors : These soap bubbles change colors using pH indicators.
• Disappearing Ink : Acid-base chemistry makes colored “ink” disappear as it dries and reappear using household ammonia.
• Color Change Liquid Thermometer : Tell the temperature by whether the liquid is pink or blue.
• Color-Changing Chameleon Eggs : This edible color change chemistry project changes the color of gelatin spheres, depending on the pH of the liquid surrounding them.
• Easy Color Changing Drinks : Turn a soft drink or cocktail into a color change chemistry project without making it taste bad.
• Color Changing Crystals : These crystals spontaneously change color due to a slow chemical reaction within them.

Holiday Color Change Chemistry Projects

These chemical reactions involve colors associated with holidays and other events.

• Natural Easter Egg Dyes : Use safe cooking ingredients as egg dyes and learn about natural pH indicators.
• Vanishing Valentine : A pink solution turns colorless as the oxidation state of its chemicals change.
• Hot and Cold Valentine : A pH indicator changes liquid from pink to colorless. A temperature change shifts the equilibrium between a normal and ionized form of a molecule, changing the solution pH and color.
• Water Into Wine or Water Into Blood : A clear liquid turns red. Use this color change chemistry project for either Easter or Halloween.
• Old Nassau or Halloween Reaction : A clear liquid turns orange and then black.
• Bleeding Paper : Goldenrod paper starts out golden yellow and turns blood red when you write your message.
• Christmas Chemistry Demonstration : This clock reaction is perfect for the winter holidays, as the liquid changes from green to red.
• Poinsettia pH Indicator : Extract pH indicator from a poinsettia plant and see test liquids to see if they turn the indicator red or green.
• Olympic Rings Demonstration : Pour clear liquid into five glasses and watch it turn the colors of the Olympic rings.

Colored Fire

Combustion is a chemical reaction and thus an example of a chemical change. However, the reason flames change color in these projects is because of light emission. Heating colorants excites their electrons. Photons released as electrons return to more stable energy states cause the color change.

• Colored Fire : Make a rainbow of colored flames using common chemicals.
• Colored Fire Pinecones : Use colorants on ordinary pinecones to spice up your campfire.
• Rainbow Flames Jack o’ Lantern : Instead of illuminating your pumpkin with a boring candle, make a rainbow of colored flames.

More Color Change Chemistry Projects

These colorful chemistry projects don’t necessarily involve chemical reactions. Other reasons for color changes include alterations in molecule shape, mixing colors, and scattering light.

• Rainbow Roses : Turn a white rose into a rainbow use. With a little know-how, change black roses into rainbows, too.
• Copper, Silver, and Gold Pennies : Change the chemical composition of coins and watch their colors change, too.
• Change Egg Yolk Color : Color egg whites using food coloring. Coloring egg yolks is trickier because the yolks are oil-based rather than water-based.
• Change Urine Color : It’s easy to change urine color. You may have done it accidentally once or twice!
• Make Rainbow Paper : Coat paper with a thin film that shows the colors of the rainbow.
• Thermal Nail Polish : Thermal nail polish changes color according to temperature. See how it works and make it yourself.

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Five Physical and Chemical Changes Experiments

Science friend, are you looking for physical and chemical change activities to engage and motivate students? These five activities will have students differentiate the differences between a physical change and a chemical change while having a lot of fun. Depending on your classroom, you may choose to do these as demonstrations or allow students to work in small groups. 

What is the difference between a physical change and a chemical change?

A physical change is a change in the size, shape, or state of matter. 

A chemical change is a change that creates something new. 

If you are new to teaching physical and chemical changes or would like a breakdown of how to teach this unit, click here . 

Physical and Chemical Changes Experiments

Physical and chemical change experiment #1 : baking soda and vinegar.

This experiment is an easy win to incorporate into your physical and chemical changes unit if you are on a budget . Baking soda and vinegar are two staples in most kitchens. Bring these materials into your classroom. 

Once you combine the two materials, students will be able to see bubbles form. Bubbles are one way to tell that a chemical change has occurred as it is a new substance that forms when baking soda and vinegar combine. 

Chemical and Physical Change Experiment #2: Naked Eggs

This activity will take a few days to observe before seeing the results but is a great example of a chemical change. To complete this experiment, you will need: 

• White vinegar

Discuss with the students about the egg. Then, ask them to predict what they think will happen when the vinegar meets the egg. Throughout the 3 days, students should see that the eggshell breaks down because of the acid in the vinegar. Eventually, the entire eggshell will disappear, leaving just the insides of the egg. 

Why does this happen? This chemical change occurs because the egg actually has little holes in its shell. The vinegar, an acid, finds its way into these tiny holes and started to break it down. However, the egg’s insides will remain intact because there is a membrane surrounding it that holds everything together. 

Chemical and Physical Changes Experiment #3: Gas Balloons

Another fun but easy experiment to use in your classroom involves soda and a balloon. Take a 1-liter bottle of any brand of soda and place a balloon around the mouth of the bottle. 

This experiment will need about ten minutes to see the changes. 

Over time, students should observe that the balloon begins to fill up and grow larger. 

This experiment can be used to see if students are thinking critically about examples of chemical and physical changes. For example, while I teach students that bubbles can indicate a chemical change, the bubbles need to be a new substance. Since the bubbles are already in the soda bottle, this is not a chemical change. However, the size of the balloon is growing because the carbon dioxide from the soda is spreading out to fill the space in the balloon, which is a physical change. 

Physical and Chemical Changes Experiment #4: Does surface area affect the rate of melting?

This activity is another one to observe a physical change. The materials are simple,

• a timer, and

Students will use the timer to calculate how long it takes ice cubes of different sizes and shapes to melt. Then, students can make comparisons for crushed or cubed ice. Next, have students use the ruler to determine the surface area of the cubes – but caution them from touching the cubes as their body heat will affect the melting rate. 

Since this activity is monitoring a change of the state of matter, it is a physical change. However, students will enjoy working with the ice cubes, and the simplicity of this activity is perfect for integrating into your science classroom. 

Chemical and Physical Changes Experiment #5: Digestion

Reinforce the concept that science happens in our bodies, including physical and chemical changes. For example, this experiment will mimic how the muscles of our bodies help to break down food in the human body to be digested. 

For this experiment, you will need: 

• 2 Ziploc bags
• Various food inside the bag
• 1/2 c Water

Fill the same types of food inside each bag trying to keep them as similar as possible. Pour about 1/2 c of water into each bag. Set your time for 5 minutes. Allow the bags to remain as they are. 

After 5 minutes, mimic the stomach muscles moving to break down the food. Often, this is a classroom demonstration, so I will call students up to squeeze the bag to resemble stomach muscles. 

Put the bags down, have students make observations, wait another five minutes and repeat. Students should observe that the food in the bag that has muscle contractions will break down more than the other bag. 

While this demonstration shows a physical change, remind students that acids and enzymes help to further break down food which is a chemical change. 

These are 5 super easy experiments to integrate into your physical and chemical changes unit. If you are looking for ready-made resources to use, check out the following: 

• 8 Chemical and Physical Changes Experiments
• Physical and Chemical Changes Unit
• How to Teach a Unit on Chemical and Physical Changes

• Read more about: physical science , science , teacher tips , Uncategorized

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Fun Chemical Reaction Experiments

Did you know that fizzing science is chemistry too? What makes the fizz and bubble, and the pop? A chemical reaction, of course! Here is our list of easy to set up chemical reaction experiments you can do at home or in the classroom. All of these easy chemistry experiments use common household ingredients. Suitable for indoors or especially fun to take outside!

CHEMICAL REACTIONS YOU CAN DO AT HOME

WHAT IS A CHEMICAL REACTION?

A chemical reaction is a process where two or more substances react together to form a new chemical substance. This might look like a gas being formed, cooking or baking, or milk souring.

Some chemical reactions take energy to get started in the form of heat while others produce heat when the substances react with each other.

Chemical reactions take place all around us. Cooking food is an example of a chemical reaction. Burning a candle is another example. Can you think of a chemical reaction you have seen?

Sometimes a physical change occurs that looks like a chemical reaction, like our exploding Mentos and Diet coke experiment . However, these experiments below are all great examples of chemical change , where a new substance is formed and the change is irreversible.

Learn more about physical change and chemical change .

Chemical reactions are just one form of chemistry! Learn about mixing saturated solutions, acid and bases , growing crystals, making slime and more with over 65 easy chemistry experiments for kids.

EASY CHEMICAL REACTIONS AT HOME

Can you do chemical reaction experiments at home? You bet! Is it hard? Nope!

What do you need to get started? Simply get up, walk into the kitchen, and start rummaging through cupboards. You are sure to find some or all of the household items you will need for these chemical reactions below.

Why not make up your own DIY science kit from inexpensive items from the grocery store or the dollar store, and items you may already have at home. Fill a plastic tote with supplies and you will have a science kit filled with learning opportunities that are sure to keep them busy all year long.

Check out our list of must-have simple science supplies and how to set up a science lab at home.

These chemical reactions work well with multiple age groups from preschool to elementary and beyond. Our activities have also been readily used with special needs groups in high school and young adult programs. Provide more or less adult supervision depending on your kids’ abilities!

We even have suggestions for easy chemical reactions for younger kiddos. Toddlers and preschoolers will love…

• Hatching Dinosaur Eggs
• Fizzing Easter Eggs
• Fizzing Moon Rocks
• Fizzy Frozen Stars
• Valentine’s Baking Soda

Grab this FREE printable Chemistry Experiments Ideas Pack to get started!

CHEMICAL REACTION SCIENCE FAIR PROJECT

Want to turn one of these experiments into a cool chemical reaction science project? Check out these helpful resources.

• Science Project Tips From A Teacher
• Science Fair Board Ideas
• Easy Science Fair Projects

Turn one of these chemical reactions into a fantastic presentation along with your hypothesis. Learn more about the scientific method for kids and variables in science .

FUN CHEMICAL REACTIONS FOR HOME OR SCHOOL

Here are some examples of chemical reactions that use everyday household items. What could be easier? Think baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice, Alka Seltzer tablets, and more!

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Physics Experiments for Kids

Alka Seltzer Rocket

Use the chemical reaction that happens when you add an Alka Seltzer tablet to water to make this cool DIY Alka Seltzer rocket.

Apple Browning Experiment

Why do apples turn brown? It is all to do with a chemical reaction between the cut part of the apple and air.

Balloon Experiment

Use a classic baking soda and vinegar reaction to inflate a balloon.

Make homemade bath bombs for a fun chemical reaction in your bath. Try our Christmas bath bomb recipe or make Halloween bath bombs . The base ingredients are the same, citric acid and baking soda.

Baking Powder Science

Find out what happens to baking powder when you add water. Here is a simple acid-base reaction that you use in baking.

Bottle Rocket

Turn a simple water bottle into a DIY water bottle rocket using a baking soda and vinegar chemical reaction.

Bread In A Bag

A chemical reaction you can eat! The chemical change is in the dough, notice what it looks like raw and then cooked. Follow our bread in a bag recipe for a fun treat the kids are sure to enjoy!

Citric Acid Experiment

Grab some oranges and lemons, and baking soda to experiment with citric chemical reactions!

Cranberry Experiment

What happens when you add baking soda to cranberry and lemon juice? Lots of fizzing action, of course!

Egg In Vinegar

Can you make a naked egg? Observe how a chemical reaction between calcium carbonate (eggshell) and vinegar makes for a bouncy egg.

Elephant Toothpaste

Kids of all ages will love this exothermic chemical reaction using hydrogen peroxide and yeast. Not only does it produce a lot of froth when the ingredients combine together. Hence the name! The reaction also produces heat.

Green Pennies

Explore how the patina of pennies forms from a chemical reaction. Try this fun penny experiment!

Invisible Ink

Write a message that no one else can see until the ink is revealed. Find out how to make your own invisible ink that is revealed with a simple chemical reaction.

Lava Lamp Experiment

This oil and water experiment does involve a bit of physics but it also includes a fun Alka Seltzer reaction!

Milk And Vinegar

Kids will be amazed by the transformation of a couple of common household ingredients, milk and vinegar, into a moldable, durable piece of a plastic-like substance.

Popping Bags

You will want to take this fun experiment outside! Try bursting bags with only a baking soda and vinegar reaction.

Make a homemade volcano project with salt dough and baking soda and vinegar reaction . Of course, there is so many more ways to have fun with baking soda and vinegar volcano.

• Sand Box Volcano
• Pumpkin Volcano
• Lego Volcano
• Apple Volcano
• Slime Volcano
• Snow Volcano

SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS BY AGE GROUPS

We’ve put together a few separate resources for different age groups, but remember that many experiments will cross over and can be re-tried at several different age levels. Younger kiddos can enjoy the simplicity and hands-on fun. At the same time, you can talk back and forth about what is happening.

As kiddos get older, they can bring more complexity to the experiments, including using the scientific method , developing hypotheses, exploring variables , creating different tests, and writing conclusions from analyzing data.

• Science for Toddlers
• Science for Preschoolers
• Science for Kindergarten
• Science for Early Elementary Grades
• Science for 3rd Grade
• Science for Middle School

MORE HELPFUL SCIENCE RESOURCES

Here are a few resources that will help you introduce science more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident yourself when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

• Best Science Practices (as it relates to the scientific method)
• Science Vocabulary
• 8 Science Books for Kids
• All About Scientists
• Science Supplies List
• Science Tools for Kids

Printable Science Projects For Kids

If you’re looking to grab all of our printable science projects in one convenient place plus exclusive worksheets and bonuses like a STEAM Project pack, our Science Project Pack is what you need! Over 300+ Pages!

• 90+ classic science activities  with journal pages, supply lists, set up and process, and science information.  NEW! Activity-specific observation pages!
• Best science practices posters  and our original science method process folders for extra alternatives!
• Be a Collector activities pack  introduces kids to the world of making collections through the eyes of a scientist. What will they collect first?
• Know the Words Science vocabulary pack  includes flashcards, crosswords, and word searches that illuminate keywords in the experiments!
• My science journal writing prompts  explore what it means to be a scientist!!
• Bonus STEAM Project Pack:  Art meets science with doable projects!
• Bonus Quick Grab Packs for Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics

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72 Easy Science Experiments Using Materials You Already Have On Hand

Because science doesn’t have to be complicated.

If there is one thing that is guaranteed to get your students excited, it’s a good science experiment! While some experiments require expensive lab equipment or dangerous chemicals, there are plenty of cool projects you can do with regular household items. We’ve rounded up a big collection of easy science experiments that anybody can try, and kids are going to love them!

Easy Chemistry Science Experiments

Easy physics science experiments, easy biology and environmental science experiments, easy engineering experiments and stem challenges.

1. Taste the Rainbow

Teach your students about diffusion while creating a beautiful and tasty rainbow! Tip: Have extra Skittles on hand so your class can eat a few!

Learn more: Skittles Diffusion

2. Crystallize sweet treats

Crystal science experiments teach kids about supersaturated solutions. This one is easy to do at home, and the results are absolutely delicious!

Learn more: Candy Crystals

3. Make a volcano erupt

This classic experiment demonstrates a chemical reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid), which produces carbon dioxide gas, water, and sodium acetate.

Learn more: Best Volcano Experiments

4. Make elephant toothpaste

This fun project uses yeast and a hydrogen peroxide solution to create overflowing “elephant toothpaste.” Tip: Add an extra fun layer by having kids create toothpaste wrappers for plastic bottles.

5. Blow the biggest bubbles you can

Add a few simple ingredients to dish soap solution to create the largest bubbles you’ve ever seen! Kids learn about surface tension as they engineer these bubble-blowing wands.

Learn more: Giant Soap Bubbles

6. Demonstrate the “magic” leakproof bag

All you need is a zip-top plastic bag, sharp pencils, and water to blow your kids’ minds. Once they’re suitably impressed, teach them how the “trick” works by explaining the chemistry of polymers.

Learn more: Leakproof Bag

7. Use apple slices to learn about oxidation

Have students make predictions about what will happen to apple slices when immersed in different liquids, then put those predictions to the test. Have them record their observations.

Learn more: Apple Oxidation

8. Float a marker man

Their eyes will pop out of their heads when you “levitate” a stick figure right off the table! This experiment works due to the insolubility of dry-erase marker ink in water, combined with the lighter density of the ink.

Learn more: Floating Marker Man

9. Discover density with hot and cold water

There are a lot of easy science experiments you can do with density. This one is extremely simple, involving only hot and cold water and food coloring, but the visuals make it appealing and fun.

Learn more: Layered Water

10. Layer more liquids

This density demo is a little more complicated, but the effects are spectacular. Slowly layer liquids like honey, dish soap, water, and rubbing alcohol in a glass. Kids will be amazed when the liquids float one on top of the other like magic (except it is really science).

Learn more: Layered Liquids

11. Grow a carbon sugar snake

Easy science experiments can still have impressive results! This eye-popping chemical reaction demonstration only requires simple supplies like sugar, baking soda, and sand.

Learn more: Carbon Sugar Snake

12. Mix up some slime

Tell kids you’re going to make slime at home, and watch their eyes light up! There are a variety of ways to make slime, so try a few different recipes to find the one you like best.

13. Make homemade bouncy balls

These homemade bouncy balls are easy to make since all you need is glue, food coloring, borax powder, cornstarch, and warm water. You’ll want to store them inside a container like a plastic egg because they will flatten out over time.

Learn more: Make Your Own Bouncy Balls

14. Create eggshell chalk

Eggshells contain calcium, the same material that makes chalk. Grind them up and mix them with flour, water, and food coloring to make your very own sidewalk chalk.

Learn more: Eggshell Chalk

15. Make naked eggs

This is so cool! Use vinegar to dissolve the calcium carbonate in an eggshell to discover the membrane underneath that holds the egg together. Then, use the “naked” egg for another easy science experiment that demonstrates osmosis .

Learn more: Naked Egg Experiment

16. Turn milk into plastic

This sounds a lot more complicated than it is, but don’t be afraid to give it a try. Use simple kitchen supplies to create plastic polymers from plain old milk. Sculpt them into cool shapes when you’re done!

17. Test pH using cabbage

Teach kids about acids and bases without needing pH test strips! Simply boil some red cabbage and use the resulting water to test various substances—acids turn red and bases turn green.

Learn more: Cabbage pH

18. Clean some old coins

Use common household items to make old oxidized coins clean and shiny again in this simple chemistry experiment. Ask kids to predict (hypothesize) which will work best, then expand the learning by doing some research to explain the results.

Learn more: Cleaning Coins

19. Pull an egg into a bottle

This classic easy science experiment never fails to delight. Use the power of air pressure to suck a hard-boiled egg into a jar, no hands required.

Learn more: Egg in a Bottle

20. Blow up a balloon (without blowing)

Chances are good you probably did easy science experiments like this when you were in school. The baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment demonstrates the reactions between acids and bases when you fill a bottle with vinegar and a balloon with baking soda.

21 Assemble a DIY lava lamp

This 1970s trend is back—as an easy science experiment! This activity combines acid-base reactions with density for a totally groovy result.

22. Explore how sugary drinks affect teeth

The calcium content of eggshells makes them a great stand-in for teeth. Use eggs to explore how soda and juice can stain teeth and wear down the enamel. Expand your learning by trying different toothpaste-and-toothbrush combinations to see how effective they are.

Learn more: Sugar and Teeth Experiment

23. Mummify a hot dog

If your kids are fascinated by the Egyptians, they’ll love learning to mummify a hot dog! No need for canopic jars , just grab some baking soda and get started.

24. Extinguish flames with carbon dioxide

This is a fiery twist on acid-base experiments. Light a candle and talk about what fire needs in order to survive. Then, create an acid-base reaction and “pour” the carbon dioxide to extinguish the flame. The CO2 gas acts like a liquid, suffocating the fire.

25. Send secret messages with invisible ink

Turn your kids into secret agents! Write messages with a paintbrush dipped in lemon juice, then hold the paper over a heat source and watch the invisible become visible as oxidation goes to work.

Learn more: Invisible Ink

26. Create dancing popcorn

This is a fun version of the classic baking soda and vinegar experiment, perfect for the younger crowd. The bubbly mixture causes popcorn to dance around in the water.

27. Shoot a soda geyser sky-high

You’ve always wondered if this really works, so it’s time to find out for yourself! Kids will marvel at the chemical reaction that sends diet soda shooting high in the air when Mentos are added.

Learn more: Soda Explosion

28. Send a teabag flying

Hot air rises, and this experiment can prove it! You’ll want to supervise kids with fire, of course. For more safety, try this one outside.

Learn more: Flying Tea Bags

29. Create magic milk

This fun and easy science experiment demonstrates principles related to surface tension, molecular interactions, and fluid dynamics.

Learn more: Magic Milk Experiment

30. Watch the water rise

Learn about Charles’s Law with this simple experiment. As the candle burns, using up oxygen and heating the air in the glass, the water rises as if by magic.

Learn more: Rising Water

31. Learn about capillary action

Kids will be amazed as they watch the colored water move from glass to glass, and you’ll love the easy and inexpensive setup. Gather some water, paper towels, and food coloring to teach the scientific magic of capillary action.

Learn more: Capillary Action

32. Give a balloon a beard

Equally educational and fun, this experiment will teach kids about static electricity using everyday materials. Kids will undoubtedly get a kick out of creating beards on their balloon person!

Learn more: Static Electricity

33. Find your way with a DIY compass

Here’s an old classic that never fails to impress. Magnetize a needle, float it on the water’s surface, and it will always point north.

Learn more: DIY Compass

34. Crush a can using air pressure

Sure, it’s easy to crush a soda can with your bare hands, but what if you could do it without touching it at all? That’s the power of air pressure!

35. Tell time using the sun

While people use clocks or even phones to tell time today, there was a time when a sundial was the best means to do that. Kids will certainly get a kick out of creating their own sundials using everyday materials like cardboard and pencils.

Learn more: Make Your Own Sundial

36. Launch a balloon rocket

Grab balloons, string, straws, and tape, and launch rockets to learn about the laws of motion.

37. Make sparks with steel wool

All you need is steel wool and a 9-volt battery to perform this science demo that’s bound to make their eyes light up! Kids learn about chain reactions, chemical changes, and more.

Learn more: Steel Wool Electricity

38. Levitate a Ping-Pong ball

Kids will get a kick out of this experiment, which is really all about Bernoulli’s principle. You only need plastic bottles, bendy straws, and Ping-Pong balls to make the science magic happen.

39. Whip up a tornado in a bottle

There are plenty of versions of this classic experiment out there, but we love this one because it sparkles! Kids learn about a vortex and what it takes to create one.

Learn more: Tornado in a Bottle

40. Monitor air pressure with a DIY barometer

This simple but effective DIY science project teaches kids about air pressure and meteorology. They’ll have fun tracking and predicting the weather with their very own barometer.

Learn more: DIY Barometer

41. Peer through an ice magnifying glass

Students will certainly get a thrill out of seeing how an everyday object like a piece of ice can be used as a magnifying glass. Be sure to use purified or distilled water since tap water will have impurities in it that will cause distortion.

Learn more: Ice Magnifying Glass

42. String up some sticky ice

Can you lift an ice cube using just a piece of string? This quick experiment teaches you how. Use a little salt to melt the ice and then refreeze the ice with the string attached.

Learn more: Sticky Ice

43. “Flip” a drawing with water

Light refraction causes some really cool effects, and there are multiple easy science experiments you can do with it. This one uses refraction to “flip” a drawing; you can also try the famous “disappearing penny” trick .

Learn more: Light Refraction With Water

44. Color some flowers

We love how simple this project is to re-create since all you’ll need are some white carnations, food coloring, glasses, and water. The end result is just so beautiful!

45. Use glitter to fight germs

Everyone knows that glitter is just like germs—it gets everywhere and is so hard to get rid of! Use that to your advantage and show kids how soap fights glitter and germs.

Learn more: Glitter Germs

46. Re-create the water cycle in a bag

You can do so many easy science experiments with a simple zip-top bag. Fill one partway with water and set it on a sunny windowsill to see how the water evaporates up and eventually “rains” down.

Learn more: Water Cycle

47. Learn about plant transpiration

Your backyard is a terrific place for easy science experiments. Grab a plastic bag and rubber band to learn how plants get rid of excess water they don’t need, a process known as transpiration.

Learn more: Plant Transpiration

48. Clean up an oil spill

Before conducting this experiment, teach your students about engineers who solve environmental problems like oil spills. Then, have your students use provided materials to clean the oil spill from their oceans.

Learn more: Oil Spill

49. Construct a pair of model lungs

Kids get a better understanding of the respiratory system when they build model lungs using a plastic water bottle and some balloons. You can modify the experiment to demonstrate the effects of smoking too.

Learn more: Model Lungs

50. Experiment with limestone rocks

Kids  love to collect rocks, and there are plenty of easy science experiments you can do with them. In this one, pour vinegar over a rock to see if it bubbles. If it does, you’ve found limestone!

Learn more: Limestone Experiments

51. Turn a bottle into a rain gauge

All you need is a plastic bottle, a ruler, and a permanent marker to make your own rain gauge. Monitor your measurements and see how they stack up against meteorology reports in your area.

Learn more: DIY Rain Gauge

52. Build up towel mountains

This clever demonstration helps kids understand how some landforms are created. Use layers of towels to represent rock layers and boxes for continents. Then pu-u-u-sh and see what happens!

Learn more: Towel Mountains

53. Take a play dough core sample

Learn about the layers of the earth by building them out of Play-Doh, then take a core sample with a straw. ( Love Play-Doh? Get more learning ideas here. )

Learn more: Play Dough Core Sampling

54. Project the stars on your ceiling

Use the video lesson in the link below to learn why stars are only visible at night. Then create a DIY star projector to explore the concept hands-on.

Learn more: DIY Star Projector

55. Make it rain

Use shaving cream and food coloring to simulate clouds and rain. This is an easy science experiment little ones will beg to do over and over.

Learn more: Shaving Cream Rain

56. Blow up your fingerprint

This is such a cool (and easy!) way to look at fingerprint patterns. Inflate a balloon a bit, use some ink to put a fingerprint on it, then blow it up big to see your fingerprint in detail.

57. Snack on a DNA model

Twizzlers, gumdrops, and a few toothpicks are all you need to make this super-fun (and yummy!) DNA model.

Learn more: Edible DNA Model

58. Dissect a flower

Take a nature walk and find a flower or two. Then bring them home and take them apart to discover all the different parts of flowers.

59. Craft smartphone speakers

No Bluetooth speaker? No problem! Put together your own from paper cups and toilet paper tubes.

Learn more: Smartphone Speakers

60. Race a balloon-powered car

Kids will be amazed when they learn they can put together this awesome racer using cardboard and bottle-cap wheels. The balloon-powered “engine” is so much fun too.

Learn more: Balloon-Powered Car

61. Build a Ferris wheel

You’ve probably ridden on a Ferris wheel, but can you build one? Stock up on wood craft sticks and find out! Play around with different designs to see which one works best.

Learn more: Craft Stick Ferris Wheel

62. Design a phone stand

There are lots of ways to craft a DIY phone stand, which makes this a perfect creative-thinking STEM challenge.

63. Conduct an egg drop

Put all their engineering skills to the test with an egg drop! Challenge kids to build a container from stuff they find around the house that will protect an egg from a long fall (this is especially fun to do from upper-story windows).

Learn more: Egg Drop Challenge Ideas

64. Engineer a drinking-straw roller coaster

STEM challenges are always a hit with kids. We love this one, which only requires basic supplies like drinking straws.

Learn more: Straw Roller Coaster

65. Build a solar oven

Explore the power of the sun when you build your own solar ovens and use them to cook some yummy treats. This experiment takes a little more time and effort, but the results are always impressive. The link below has complete instructions.

Learn more: Solar Oven

66. Build a Da Vinci bridge

There are plenty of bridge-building experiments out there, but this one is unique. It’s inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s 500-year-old self-supporting wooden bridge. Learn how to build it at the link, and expand your learning by exploring more about Da Vinci himself.

Learn more: Da Vinci Bridge

67. Step through an index card

This is one easy science experiment that never fails to astonish. With carefully placed scissor cuts on an index card, you can make a loop large enough to fit a (small) human body through! Kids will be wowed as they learn about surface area.

68. Stand on a pile of paper cups

Combine physics and engineering and challenge kids to create a paper cup structure that can support their weight. This is a cool project for aspiring architects.

Learn more: Paper Cup Stack

69. Test out parachutes

Gather a variety of materials (try tissues, handkerchiefs, plastic bags, etc.) and see which ones make the best parachutes. You can also find out how they’re affected by windy days or find out which ones work in the rain.

Learn more: Parachute Drop

70. Recycle newspapers into an engineering challenge

It’s amazing how a stack of newspapers can spark such creative engineering. Challenge kids to build a tower, support a book, or even build a chair using only newspaper and tape!

Learn more: Newspaper STEM Challenge

71. Use rubber bands to sound out acoustics

Explore the ways that sound waves are affected by what’s around them using a simple rubber band “guitar.” (Kids absolutely love playing with these!)

Learn more: Rubber Band Guitar

72. Assemble a better umbrella

Challenge students to engineer the best possible umbrella from various household supplies. Encourage them to plan, draw blueprints, and test their creations using the scientific method.

Learn more: Umbrella STEM Challenge

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16 Red-Hot Volcano Science Experiments and Kits For Classrooms or Science Fairs

Kids will erupt with excitement! Continue Reading

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Experiments: Physical and Chemical Changes

Burn a sugar cube.

Safety Rules: Parent supervision Take care with fire or heat Do it outdoors Materials you need are: 3 sugar cubes (from the supermarket) powdered carbon (e.g. remnants of a campfire, cigarette ash) matches

Try burning the sugar cube with the lit match first. It shouldn't burn.

Now dip the sugar cube in cigarette ash (carbon) and light it again. It should light much more easily.

The carbon heats up and raises the temperature of the surrounding sugar crystals to the ignition temperature required for the sugar to burn. Once these first crystals are burning, they provide sufficient heat for the neighbouring crystals to continue burning.

Materials you need are: 1 ⁄ 4 cup of water food colouring 1 ⁄ 2 cup of cornstarch 1 ⁄ 4 cup of cold cream small brushes small container plastics spoons

Mix cornstarch, water and cold cream together thoroughly. Spoon into containers, one for each colour. Add food colouring to each container of face paint. Use brushes to paint faces.

This face paint washes of with soap and water.

How Much Oxygen is in Air

Safety Rules: Parent supervision Take care with fire or heat Materials you need are: a large clear container a smaller clear container water a small candle a small light dish on which the candle floats matches

Set up the materials as in the diagram. Light the candle and put the cover over it last. Wait a few minutes until the candle goes out. Watch the water in the small container rise.

Oxygen takes up almost 20% or one-fifth of air. When all of the oxygen in the container has been used in burning the candle, it will be replaced by the water rising.

Invisible Ink

Safety Rules: Parent supervision Take care with fire or heat Materials you need are: freshly-squeezed lemon juice a toothpick or a fine stick as a pen a sheet of paper a candle matches

The 'ink' is the lemon juice. Dip the toothpick or fine stick into the lemon juice and write your name on the paper. Allow it to dry completely. Light the candle and hold the paper above the flame so that heat only burns the lemon juice writing but not the paper.

The ignition temperature needed to burn the sugar in the lemon juice is lower than that of the paper.

Snuff Out a Candle with a Copper Coil

Safety Rules: Parent supervision Take care with fire or heat Materials you need are: thick copper or aluminium wire (about 30 centimetres long) a candle matches

Make a coil of wire with either thick copper or thick aluminium wire. Hold the cold wire coil over a burning candle for a short time. The candle should go out.

The fire is extinguished because the coil of wire conducts heat away from the flame so fast that the temperature below the ignition temperature.

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• Xcelerate Science

Rosie Riveters

Rosie Explores Chemical and Physical Change

Perform these fun experiments to explore chemical and physical change!

Homepage • Hands-on STEM • Resources

• Fire is used as a part of these experiments. Please do not perform without an adult.

Learn the differences between chemical and physical change in this series of experiments . We’re playing with paper towels, blowing up balloons, and making all kinds of chemical reactions!

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Simple Chemical Change Experiments for 4th Graders

5th Grade Chemical Change Activity

Fourth graders, like most younger students, find chemical change experiments especially intriguing. Watching substances change and learning the science behind the change is a high-interest activity for the science classroom. Physical change occurs when substances change but retain their identity. However, with chemical change, the substances change and become something else.

Dissolving in Vinegar

To do this experiment, you need the egg shell from a hard-boiled egg, a calcium tablet from an oyster shell, vinegar, water, white chalk, a tablespoon made of metal, two straws and two small cups. Draw a chart on a paper and make three rows across for the eggshell, chalk and calcium tablet, and two rows down, one for water and one for vinegar. Take a sample of the chalk, tablet and eggshell and crush it with the back of the metal tablespoon in the spot on the chart where it's indicated. Place a few drops of water of each sample in the water row, using the straw. Observe any changes. Next, do the same in the vinegar row with a few drops of vinegar and observe changes. Explain that vinegar is actually acetic acid, and when combined with calcium carbonate, they come apart and form new chemicals.

Chemical Bubbles

Show students how a chemical change can yield bubbles. Label one plastic cup baking soda and the other vinegar. Pour three tablespoons of vinegar and three tablespoons of water in the cup labeled vinegar. Pour the solution into a clean, plastic soda bottle and add a one-quarter teaspoon of dishwashing detergent. Swirl carefully but do not shake. Tape a funnel made out of paper. Place three tablespoons of baking soda into the appropriately labeled cup, then use the paper funnel to pour the baking soda all at once into the soda bottle. Swirl the mixture and observe what happens. Explain that in the chemical change, you created carbon dioxide gas, water and sodium acetate.

For an extra-appealing experiment on chemical change for your fourth-grade class, make some slime. To do this experiment, you'll mix white glue, but not the washable kind, and an equal amount of water. In another container, combine two tablespoons of Borax with a cup of water. Borax is found in the laundry section of stores. Add a few tablespoons of the Borax solution to the glue solution and quickly mix them together. Watch as the chemical change results in some delightfully gooey slime.

Fourth graders will enjoy the messy chemical change that results from this Glop experiment. It's simple and takes items easily available: cornstarch and water. Simply mix together equal amounts of those two items and watch the chemical change. Try to get children to determine what type of substance it is — a solid or liquid. It is actually in a state between and therefore, is hard to handle or describe but quite fun to play with.

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• American Chemical Society: A Gas Sudstation
• American Chemical Society: The Fate of Calcium Carbonate

About the Author

Katlyn Joy has been a freelance writer since 1982. She graduated from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville with a master's degree in writing. While in school she served as graduate assistant editor of "Drumvoices Revue" magazine.

Photo Credits

Digital Vision/Digital Vision/Getty Images

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Physical And Chemical Changes Activities For Middle School: Discussions, Experiments, Observation, And Other Resources

January 2, 2024 //  by  Elizabeth Weinick

Let’s face it – distinguishing between physical and chemical changes is not as easy as differentiating between cutting paper versus an exploding model volcano. There are many misconceptions that make the two concepts difficult for learners to understand! Middle schoolers must have a solid understanding of these concepts in order to apply their knowledge to bigger concepts in later grades. Here are 27 easy-prep, memorable and hands-on activities for middle schoolers to defy their misconceptions about physical and chemical changes and master the basics!

1. An Introduction to Physical and Chemical Changes

This introduction to physical and chemical changes includes a video, discussion questions, a vocabulary review, an activity guide, and assessments. The video is engaging and relatable for middle schoolers!

Learn More: Generation Genius

2. Skittles Science

You can dissolve skittles to investigate the question at the end of the rainbow – is this a physical or chemical change? You can vary the experiment by using different temperatures of water, white vinegar, or even lemonade to discover what happens.

Learn More: Science Sparks

3. Baking Chemistry

Explore chemical changes with baking! Sabrina talks about changes that can’t be undone in this episode of Crash Course Kids. She clearly defines chemical changes and provides a yummy experiment to enjoy after learning!

Learn More: Crash Course Kids

4. Naked Egg

Egg-xamine chemical and physical changes with eggs! This website provides several ways to observe the swelling and shrinking of de-shelled eggs in different liquids. This is also a great option to practice measuring and calculation skills while learning how different liquids affect the eggs’ mass.

Learn More: Exploratorium

5. Maximize Science!

Max captures young scientists’ attention in this video by creating huge versions of typical science experiments. Max investigates the chemical reaction that occurs to create light in a glow stick and the physical change for rock candy before creating a giant version of each!

Learn More: Science Max

6. Tarnished Coins

If you are curious why the Statue of Liberty is green, this activity explains the chemical reaction that happened over time to cause the color to change. This experiment model this oxidation with pennies.

Learn More: wikiHow

7. Dissolving Cups

While you may think watching a styrofoam cup disappear before your eyes is a chemical change, it is actually a physical change! Your children will be amazed to watch the bubbles that appear and learn why this is actually a physical change.

Learn More: Resource Center

8. Elephant Toothpaste

You can create toothpaste that would be perfect for an elephant! The product of this chemical reaction is a large foamy mess that is fun and kid-safe. You may want to dive deeper into why hydrogen peroxide produces this fun substance. 

Learn More: Imagination Station Toledo

9. Erupting Diet Coke and Mentos

You know your middle schools are itching for an explosion! Drop mentos into diet coke and squeal while everyone runs to a safe distance to watch the eruption. You can dismantle the misconception that an explosion always means a chemical reaction.

Learn More: Science B uddies

10. CSI Lab

You can bring a CSI television experience into your home with this “Case of the Missing Cake” activity! You and your children must use knowledge of chemical and physical changes to test samples of known and unknown substances to determine which suspect is the culprit!

Learn More: Mrs. Willyerd’s Virtual Classroom

11. Lemon Science

You can make a smaller version of the classic volcano by using a lemon! You may enjoy the low prep and easy-to-find materials needed. The best part is you can see the reaction occurring on the top of the lemon!

Learn More: Learning Lessons with Mrs. Labrasciano

12. Sort it Out

While experiments are a great visual, students also need concrete activities to solidify their knowledge of vocabulary and definitions. Here is a card sort to identify the differences between changes with both words and pictures to help struggling learners.

Learn More: Teaching with Elly Thorsen

13. Create Glow Sticks

We are always amazed at after-dark events with glow sticks! Students will love learning what chemicals must mix to produce the light that entrances us and why that “crack” is important for the change.

Learn More: A Dab Of Glue Will Do

14. Stained Shirt

If you have ever ruined a shirt with bleach, this experiment explains why bleach so powerfully takes over! This experiment is a great hands-on, team project to get all learners involved.

Learn More: Super Sass and Science Class

15. Misconceptions Explained

For struggling learners, this animation breaks down the complex language involved in chemical and physical reactions through an interaction between a scientist and a bunsen burner. They identify many misconceptions, so you may want to discuss with your students which misunderstandings they were surprised about!

Learn More: Smithsonian Science Education Center

16. Air Balloons

Here is a twist on the classic chemical reaction that occurs when you mix baking soda and vinegar! Add a balloon to the top of the container and watch in amazement. You can find out why the chemical reaction causes the balloon to react in this way.

Learn More: Education.com

17. Browning Apples

This experiment proves that we see chemical reactions so often and do not even realize it! Students will explore why the enzymes in apples react with oxygen- and how to prevent this!

Learn More: Purdue

18. Digestion in a Bag

This step-by-step activity puts the knowledge of chemical reactions to use as students investigate how our bodies break down food into small parts to create energy for our bodies. Students will create a model stomach in a ziplock bag!

Learn More: Discovery @ Home

19. Chemical Changes in Everyday Materials

Scientist Jared explains how chemical reactions can happen quickly or slowly. He does this with simple everyday materials, such as tin and fire, and ingredients to make bread.

Learn More: Fun Science Demos

20. Pumpkin Science

Perfect for a fall activity, this experiment allows students to follow the decomposition cycle of a pumpkin and discover what physical and chemical changes are occurring. You may want to supplement this experiment with the books provided!

Learn More: Teaching Muse

21. Popcorn is Physical

You can incorporate chemical and physical reaction learning into snack time! Learners often think physical changes are reversible, however, popcorn is the perfect example of a physical change that we cannot return to the original kernel state. Discuss as you make this snack!

Learn More: Edventures with Kids

22. Get the Scoop on Dairy Products

This lesson allows higher learners to apply their knowledge of physical science to determine what type of changes occur when turning milk into cheese, butter, yogurt, ice cream, whip cream, and other dairy products.

Learn More: Agriculture in the Classroom

23. Make Plastic from Milk

Learn how chemical changes can create something new and usable! Learners can create their own own toys, beads, and more by getting different substances to react with milk. Read on to find out the chemistry and history behind this process!

Learn More: STEAM Powered Family

24. Explore Physical and Chemical Changes in Everyday Life

We don’t always see the explosive attractions that come with chemical and physical reactions. Students can understand that they are seeing these changes in their daily life with stations such as salt and water mixtures, rusted nails, and a browned banana.

Learn More: Bright in the Middle

25. Physical and Chemical Weathering Activities

This project applies concepts of chemical and physical changes to another science topic- weathering! Students can complete these activities with sugar cubes and graham crackers to explore why statues are weathered and why sinkholes occur.

Learn More: The Owl Teacher

26. Kool-Aid Chemical Reactions

While making typical kool-aid is a physical change, complete this experiment with different types of liquids to see how the substance reacts! You may choose between lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and kool-aid water to see the changes that occur.

Learn More: Teaching Science with Lynda R. Williams

27. Kitchen Science

You can teach physical and chemical properties while baking! You may choose to discuss why common baking ingredients have certain properties, then, enjoy the tasty reward at the end!

Learn More: iExplore Science

Science Experiments that Show Quick Chemical Change Using Sugar

• Sylvia Cini
• Categories : Great ideas for science fair projects
• Tags : Homework help & study guides

A Review of the Types of Change

Physical changes are modifications which alter an object or substance in a non-chemical manner. They change

the physical properties of the object such as size, color, texture, volume or density. For example, water transitioning from solid to liquid is a physical change. Solid, liquid, gas or plasma, it’s still good ole’ H2O.

Ripping, folding, cutting and tearing paper are also examples of physical changes. You initiate physical changes in your environment every minute of every day_. Can you think of a few?_

C **** hemical change occurs inside of an object and affects its chemical properties such as toxicity, reactivity or flammability. When chemical changes occur, we’re usually able to see some sign of a reaction such as the light and sound from exploding fireworks, or the color and stench of molding bread. Unlike physical changes, chemical change cannot be undone. For example, burning wood is a chemical reaction. The process of burning releases CO2 and consumes O2. Heat and light are released. And the resulting substance, ash, cannot be turned into wood again.

Having Trouble Keeping The Two Straight?

• …is it reversible? (Physical changes are generally reversible. Chemical changes are not.)
• …was a new substance created? (Chemical changes produce a new substance.)
• …was energy absorbed or released? (Chemical change often takes energy. If there was a flash of light, a rise in temperature or a burst of movement a chemical reaction probably occurred.)

Read on to learn how to conduct an experiment about chemical change right in your very own kitchen.

This experiment is safe to perform in your home or classroom, as long as you take some basic precautions:

• Ask an adult. Ask an adult for permission before you start. Ask an adult for help while you are working. And ask an adult whenever you are unsure how to complete the directions in this guide. (When in doubt… ask an adult !)
• Wear safety equipment. We aren’t working with volatile chemicals here, but we will be touching some pretty hot items. So, wear a shirt with sleeves and use oven mitts or pot holders when working over the stovetop.
• Don’t fool around. This is not the time to multi-task. Don’t answer the phone or play with your dog while working. Act like the scientist that you are.
• Read all of the instructions before you begin. That way you will be prepared for what is coming next…

Looking for a pre-experiment warm-up to get excited about? Here’s a 2-minute physical change that will get you buzzing. (Keep it in mind for later since it’s related to the main event.)

• Pour 1 packet of sugar into a glass of water.
• Stir until sugar is not visible.

The water tastes sweet, doesn’t it? This is because the sugar crystals have broken down and been distributed throughout the glass. (This is a solution!)

If you were to wait for the water to evaporate (or boil it away) you’d be left with…the sugar (or at least whatever sugar you didn’t drink!). This is because you only changed the sugar’s physical properties .

It never stopped being sugar and it always longed to return to crystal form. Once the water was gone, it was a matter of nature running its course.

Things You’ll Need:

2 Cups Sugar

1 Cup Water

1 Tablespoon Light Corn Syrup

Small or medium sauce pan (Use the heaviest pan you have)

Candy thermometer (If you don’t have one you can still perform the experiment but you will definitely need an adult to help. Read the “Up Candy Creek Without A Thermometer” section at the end of this article.)

2 Metal baking sheets

2 Sheets of parchment paper

Note: Make sure all of your equipment is clean before you begin. Contaminants such as grease or soapy residue could ruin your experiment.

The Main Event…

1. Pour sugar, water and corn syrup into the saucepan.

2. Stir the mixture 2-5 times to spread the sugar evenly throughout the pan.

3. Place pan on stove and turn on high heat.

4. Rinse the candy thermometer under warm water for 5-10 seconds and clip it to the side of the pan so that the ball is submerged.

5. Don’t touch the pan. Do not stir the solution. Do not shake the stove. Just watch.

What’s Happening?

Now, this wouldn’t be a science experiment about chemical change without a little science . So, let’s take a minute to think about what is happening on the stovetop.

The solution of sugar, water and corn syrup is heating up–or gaining energy . And that’s a red flag for a chemical reaction about to happen.

The water reacts to the heat noticeably (physical change) and starts to evaporate–you might see some vapor leaving the pan.

A super-saturated sugar solution is left behind. (Not sure what that is? Well, picture a packed pool. There is only so much space. Eventually, you won’t be able to fit any new swimmers in the water. Super saturated solutions are substances which have no room for more molecules. If you were to add more sugar to the solution at this point, it would just sit on top.)

Remember the warm-up? Wondering why the sugar doesn’t turn back into crystals when the water is gone? Simple. The corn syrup!

The corn syrup that is in this solution is a form of liquid sugar. When we added it to the pot, we introduced a molecular building block that was not part of the original sugar crystals. When the water evaporates and the sugar attempts to return to a solid state, the corn syrup molecules act like imposters, taking the place of certain sugar molecules. When this happens the crystal structures become unstable and the sugar is unable to return to its original form .

6. When the thermometer reads 230 degrees Fahrenheit, lower the heat to medium.

7. When the thermometer reads 300 degrees Fahrenheit, swirl the pan slowly to distribute heat evenly. ( Note the change in color–a sign of chemical change. Between 320 and 330 degrees Fahrenheit the sugar breaks down into new substances–over 150 different sugars!)

8. At this point the sugar will form mountains of bubbles. (See Picture) Wait for the mixture to turn amber, a warm brown tone. Then remove the pan from the heat. Hold the pan at a slight angle and slowly rock the mixture with the spoon.

9. Lift the spoon from the sauce pan and allow the sugar to drip back into the pot. If it drips like water, keep stirring slowly. If it falls in a smooth line, you’re ready to move on. Put the pan down on a cold burner while you prep your work area.

10. Place the cookie sheets upside down on a table or counter top. Lay the parchment paper on top of the sheets.

11. Pick up your sauce pan and place it on a pot holder near your cookie sheets. Dip the spoon into the sugar until it is coated. Lift the spoon and drizzle sugar on the parchment paper.

12. Let the sugar cool for 15-30 minutes. Then peel off and eat.

Note: If you’re feeling ambitious and have a lot of sauce left, place the pan back on the stove on medium-high heat. Let it cook until the color darkens to a deep brown. Just when smoke wisps appear on the surface of the sugar, remove it from the heat and pour 1 1/2 cups heavy cream into the pan–at arms length. Stir 2-5 times and cook over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes.

Up Candy Creek Without A Thermometer

If you don’t have a candy thermometer, don’t feel bad. (I don’t have one either.)

You can still approximate the temperature of your candy confection using the cold water method. Here’s how it works.

WARNING: Sugar is HOT. Very, very hot. You will receive severe burns if you perform this method incorrectly. Do not underestimate the destructive power of this sweet treat; before you are able to remove the sugar from your fingertips considerable damage will be done. Only an adult or supervised teenager should perform this technique. Children may, of course, eat the cooled sample sugar!

When you cook sugar and water, it goes through several stages named after how the solution reacts when cooled in water. They are thread, pearl, soft ball, firm ball, hard ball, soft crack, hard crack and finally caramel.

For the purposes of this experiment, you only need to identify two stages: pearl (230 degrees) and hard crack (299 degrees).

Pearl is the second stage when temperature hovers between 231 and 239 degrees Fahrenheit. If you were to drizzle the heated solution into a bowl of cold water, it would form a thin thread. This thread can be molded lightly with your fingers and turned into a ball. But when removed from the water, the ball instantly flattens into a pancake.

Hard crack is the stage right before caramel. The solution is about 285-299 degrees Fahrenheit. When dropped into the water and cooled it will form a hard solid glob that can be cracked or shattered. If you can identify this stage, you know caramel is coming. Look out for a change in color. Hot caramel is a light straw color.

To conduct the cold water test:

• Place a glass bowl with cold water and 2 ice cubes near the stovetop.
• Wear pot holders.
• Dip the spoon into the solution and carefully remove 1 teaspoon of sugar.
• Drop the sugar into the bowl, directly into the water.
• Remove the pot holders and wait for at least 10 seconds.
• Gently mold the sugar with your fingers to test the texture of the solution and judge the temperature. Keep in mind that while you test the sugar, the solution is still cooking! So the pot will be hotter than your sample.

Food For Thought…

If you wet paper and it turns into pulp, have you performed a chemical or physical change?

What are the indicators that your sugar has undergone a chemical change?

Is the combination of sugar, water and corn syrup a mixture or solution ? Why?

What would happen if you had stirred the solution before it was done heating up?

Enjoy Performing An Experiment About Chemical Change?

Did you have fun performing this experiment about chemical change?

Use the resources below to learn more about the science behind the sweet or hunt down some more at-home experiments.

Remember, science is better when shared–so tell your friends about your experiment and spread the joy. Or take your caramel to school and make your classmates green with envy. (Do you suppose that is a chemical or physical change?)

The Science Of The Experiment

FOSSweb: Mixtures and Solutions ( https://www.fossweb.com/modules3-6/MixturesandSolutions/index.html )

Purdue: More on solubility and super-saturation ( https://chemed.chem.purdue.edu/genchem/topicreview/bp/ch18/soluble.php )

Utah Office Of Education: 8th Grade Chemical Change ( https://www.schools.utah.gov/curr/Science/sciber00/8th/matter/sciber/chemchng.htm )

What Is The Difference Between A Physical Change And A Chemical Change? ( https://www.physlink.com/education/askexperts/ae244.cfm )

More On Sugar

• Exploratoruim: Science of Candy ( https://www.exploratorium.edu/cooking/candy/sugar.html )
• Food Network: Banana Splitsville Recipe : In case you were looking for a way to use all that caramel! ( https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/banana-splitsville-recipe/index.html )

The Cold Water Test

• BBC: How To Make Sweets Without Using A Thermometer ( https://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A1090630 )
• Exploratorium: The Cold Water Test ( https://www.exploratorium.edu/cooking/candy/sugar-stages.html )

More Experiments

• Home Experiments : Nifty experiments that you can do at home ( https://scifun.chem.wisc.edu/homeexpts/homeexpts.html )
• Hunkin’s Experiments : More science fun for a rainy day ( https://www.hunkinsexperiments.com/themes/themes _science.htm)

Photo Credits

• “News Paper Origami Dragon Monster” by epSos.de/Flickr Creative Commons
• “Ice Drip” by PamRamsey/Flickr Creative Commons
• “Melting Caramel” by Styeb/ Flick Creative Commons
• “Sugar Cubes” by Sylvia Cini

This post is part of the series: Chemical Change for Kids

Information and experiments about chemical change for kids.

• Definition of a Chemical Change
• Using Sugar to Conduct a Chemical Change

FEATURED NEWS

California NanoSystems Institute > Faculty News > June 20, 2024 | Atomic view of a chemical catalyst during electrically charged reaction is a scientific first

Atomic view of a chemical catalyst during electrically charged reaction is a scientific first

Findings could enable advances in sustainable energy production, industry and design

By Wayne Lewis

A ll around us are products that depend on chemical reactions aided by electricity.

These electrochemical reactions are involved in manufacturing everything from aluminum and PVC pipe to soap and paper. They happen inside the batteries powering electronics, automobiles, pacemakers and more. And they may hold the key to sustainable production of energy and other resources that society relies upon.

Catalysts such as copper help drive reactions, so they’re used in the vast majority of industrial applications for electrochemistry. Efforts to develop better catalysts have been hampered because what happens to these catalysts during reactions is poorly understood. Up till now, atomic imaging of catalysts could only happen before and after reactions, leaving researchers to figure out what occurred in between.

That limitation has fallen away thanks to a collaboration between the   California NanoSystems Institute at UCLA   and   Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.   In a   new study   published in the journal Nature, the team used a specially designed electrochemical cell to view the atomic details of a copper catalyst during a reaction that breaks down carbon dioxide — a potential route to recycle the greenhouse gas into fuel or other useful substances. The scientists documented liquid-like masses of copper appearing and disappearing at the catalyst surface, leaving it pitted.

“For something that is all over our lives, we actually understand very little about how catalysts work in real time,” said co-author   Pri Narang,   associate professor of physical sciences in   UCLA College   and a CNSI member. “We now have the ability to look at what’s happening at an atomic level and understand it from a theoretical standpoint.

“Everyone would benefit from turning carbon dioxide straight to fuel, but how do we do it, and do it cheaply, reliably and at scale?” added Narang, who also holds an appointment in electrical and computer engineering at the   UCLA Samueli School of Engineering.  “This is the type of fundamental science that should move the needle in addressing those challenges.”

Beyond the implications for sustainability research, these findings — and the technology that makes them possible — could advance the efficiency of electrochemical processes for numerous applications that impact everyday life. The study could help scientists and engineers move toward rational catalyst design instead of trial and error, according to co-author   Yu Huang,   Traugott and Dorothea Frederking Endowed Professor and chair of the materials science and engineering department at UCLA Samueli.

“Any information we can get about what really happens in electrocatalysis is a tremendous help in our fundamental understanding and search for practical designs,” said Huang, who is a member of the CNSI. “Without that information, it’s as if we’re throwing darts blindfolded, and hoping that we hit somewhere close to the target.”

Images were captured at Berkeley Lab’s   Molecular Foundry   with a high-power electron microscope. This type of microscope uses a beam of electrons to see inside samples at a level of detail smaller than the length of a light wave.

Electron microscopy has run into obstacles revealing the atomic structure of materials working in liquids — such as the briny electrolyte bath needed for an electrochemical reaction. Running electricity through a sample adds a further degree of difficulty. Corresponding author Haimei Zheng, a senior scientist at Berkeley Lab and adjunct professor at UC Berkeley, and her colleagues created a hermetically sealed device that overcomes these hurdles.

The researchers conducted experiments to eliminate the chance that the electricity running through the system was affecting the resulting image. Zeroing in on the spot where the copper catalyst met the liquid electrolyte, the team captured changes that played out over about four seconds.

During the reaction, the structure of the copper shifted from an orderly crystal lattice, typically seen in metals, into an amorphous mass. That disordered bundle, containing atoms and positively charged ions of copper plus a few molecules of water, then flowed over the catalyst surface. As it did so, atoms exchanged between the ordered and disordered copper, leaving the catalyst surface pitted. Finally, the amorphous mass disappeared.

“We never expected the surface to turn amorphous and then return back to the crystalline structure,” said co-author Yang Liu, a UCLA graduate student in Huang’s research group. “Without this special tool for watching the system in operation, we would never be able to capture that moment. The advancement of characterization tools like this enables new fundamental discoveries, helping us understand how materials work under realistic conditions.”

The study’s co-first authors are Qiubo Zhang and Xianhu Sun of Berkeley Lab and Zhigang Song, a member of Narang’s research group who is based at Harvard University. Other co-authors at Berkeley Lab are Sophia Betzler, Qi Zheng, Junyi Shangguan, Karen Bustillo and Peter Ercius, as well as Jiawei Wan, who is also affiliated with UC Berkeley.

The Department of Energy provided funding for this study, as well as for the Molecular Foundry at Berkeley Lab.