Year 10 Science: Chemical Reactions Unit

This term’s chemical reactions unit is drawing to a close. Students have learned the differences between chemical and physical changes, the structure of atoms and their electron configurations, and the particle makeup of elements, compounds and mixtures.

New learning included experimenting to find out the result of chemical reactions between:

• Metals and oxygen

• Metals and acids

• Metal carbonates and acids

• Bases and acids

Testing for oxygen, hydrogen and carbon dioxide gases was carried out, and chemical and symbol equations were written for each type of reaction. Ask your son/daughter what the acronyms MASHy and BASH stand for!

The neutralisation reaction between acids and bases always requires patience, especially when trying to make a 'rainbow' of pH colours. This is a fun lesson with a rewarding end!