chemical properties

Candle Observation Lab

Liz Belasic1 Comment

candle_observation_lab

Materials – per 2 students

  • Student Handout (Candle Observations)
  • votive candle
  • small beaker
  • large beaker
  • ruler
  • matches & beaker with water for spent matches
    • I light the candles for the students in this age group (6th)

candle_observation_2

Procedures

  1. Discuss how candles work and the fire triangle (link)
  2. Discuss combustion and the chemical reactions that takes place when a candle burns
  3. Explain the lab procedures and remind students of safety protocols
  4. Students will record qualitative and quantitative observations of an unlit candle (5 minutes), burning candle (10 minutes), and a covered burning candle until it goes out and the wax hardens (5 minutes)
    • all students will place the larger beaker over the candle at the same time and watch as the candle goes out
  5. Share observations and discuss
rtemagicc_condensingcandle-burning
Image via The Naked Scientist

I like to use this lab as part of my physical and chemical changes unit, it is such a classic and the kids make some great observations and ask lots of good questions.

Links:

Physical & Chemical Properties vs Physical & Chemical Changes Foldable

Liz Belasic4 Comments
pdf
8 1/2 x 14 Foldable

Materials

  • Physical & Chemical Properties vs Physical & Chemical Changes Foldable Notes – (link)
  • Reinforcement page (pdf)
  • Glue
  • Scissors

How to use the foldable:

  1. This activity can be done with or without a partner
  2. Cut the tabs on the dotted guide lines, but do not fold yet, instead keep the paper flat
  3. Page 3 of the document contains the notes, Page 4 is the answer key
  4. The notes are not grouped together correctly – cut out each piece of information along the dotted lines
  5. Place the notes into the correct boxes under the corresponding tabs
  6. Do not glue anything yet, just a dry fit at this point
  7. Discuss the answers
  8. Glue the correct pieces in order, move the incorrect pieces
  9. When done,  fold the tabs so they meet in the middle
  10. Glue into notebook