Children study about matter in physical science, along with the characteristic properties of matter called the physical and chemical. Each characteristic is typically investigated separately, leaving children wondering why they are always talked about in conjunction with each other.
However it is not difficult to study each characteristic in the same investigation using everyday household items. This investigation will study physical and chemical properties in one investigation, which is designed for grades 6 – 12.
Changes in Properties of Matter
Physical property changes of matter do not produce a new substance and are typically described by the following:
- Color – every object has a color
- Odor – intensity of smell
- Density – mass divided by volume
- Luster – how shiny it is
- Ductility – ability to be drawn into thin wires
- Malleability – ability to be beaten into thin sheets
- Elasticity – ability to return to original shape
- Hardness – ability to be scratched
- Conductivity – allows energy flow, electricity or heat
- Insulator – resists flow of energy, electricity or heat
- Organic/Inorganic – was once alive or is alive/was never alive
Chemical property changes of matter produces a new substance and can be typically described by the following:
- Color – change in color indicates a chemical change
- Temperature – change in temperature indicates a chemical change
Properties of Matter Investigation
The following investigation will combine physical and chemical changes in property. These materials a required for each child conducting the investigation:
- 1- Gallon Resealable Plastic Bag
- 1/2 - Teaspoon of Baking Soda
- 1/2 - Teaspoon of Calcium Chloride (typically found in Ice Melt Compounds)
- 50 ml or 1.7 oz - White Vinegar
- Paper towels
- Safety Goggles
Conducting the Investigation
First have children describe physical properties of the materials in the investigation, using the physical property categories above. Do not tell them the ingredients until the investigation is over, unless they name them correctly when describing physical properties.
They should be able to distinguish the properties of baking soda and calcium chloride without touching the substances.
Once they have described the physical properties of the investigation materials, allow them to conduct the investigation as follows:
- Place the Baking Soda, Calcium Chloride, and Vinegar to in the plastic bag and reseal the bag. (Ensure the bag is resealed correctly).
- Have them describe what is happening to the ingredients the plastic bag. The children should write their observations down on a sheet of paper.
- Caution: Do not let the children point the resealable end of the bag in the direction of their face because the bag will expand and the ingredients in the bag can get on them if the bag opens accidently.
Reporting Observations and Findings
These are the observations the children should make and describe in their own words during the investigation:
- Ingredients turned colors from white to yellow – chemical property because of a color change.
- Yellow substance in the bag became cold – chemical property because a change in temperature.
- Bag filled with a gas and expands – chemical property because something new was produced.
- Yellow substance became red – chemical property because of a color change.
- Red substance became warm – chemical property because of a change in temperature.
- Physical changes occurred – solids were mixed with a liquid and a gas was produced
David R. Wetzel - Dr. David Wetzel's experience includes more than 25 years in continuing, adult, and teacher education.
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