The Pressure's On


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In this chemistry activity, learners explore chemical reactions and their effects, including the kind of reaction in the human body that makes people burp! Specifically, learners experiment with mixing water and antacid and the resulting carbon dioxide gas bubbles produced. They also can experiment with how differing pressure affects the size of the bubbles produced. In the "Extensions" section, it is suggested that the participants use other substances and equipment to see what happens as gas is produced and expands.

Quick Guide


Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes

Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes

Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students

Age Range:
Ages 8 - 11

Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity

Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)


  • cereal bowl
  • 16-ounce (480-ml) clear plastic soda bottle
  • 1/4 cup (63 ml) tap water
  • 2 effervescent antacid tablets

Subjects


  • Life Sciences
    • Human Body
      • Digestion
  • Physical Sciences
    • Chemistry
      • Chemical Reactions
    • States of Matter
      • Solids
      • Liquids
      • Gases

Audience


To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other


Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights: