Coral Protection

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In this activity, learners explore how changing ocean conditions could affect materials like coral. Learners make a red cabbage acidity indicator, use it to compare alkaline water, tap water, lemon water, and vinegar, then test how those liquids react with antacid tablets as a model for coral. By observing color changes and looking for bubbles, learners investigate how acidity can affect calcium carbonate, a material found in coral reefs.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - adult
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 1 red cabbage
  • Bottled alkaline water (1 cup)
  • White vinegar (1 cup)
  • 1 lemon or 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • Tap water (1 cup)
  • Antacid tablets (e.g., Tums)
  • Straws
  • Permanent markers
  • 12-16 clear plastic cups
  • Additional household liquids (optional)
  • Crushed eggshells (optional)
  • Blender
  • Spoons
  • Liquid measuring cup
  • Data sheet (included in the activity PDF)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Physical Sciences
    • Chemistry
      • Chemical Reactions
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Oceans and Water
  • Life Sciences
    • Ecology
      • Human Impact
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Metallurgy and Materials Engineering

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see

Culture, ethnicity, and gender

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Penn State University; The Franklin Institute

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Penn State University, 2021

Funding Source:

  • National Science Foundation, DMR-2011839

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