Fantastic fizzing reaction

Article/Susan Huang

Photo/Susan  Yanee  Judy

In Y4 , we have been learning about the properties of solids, liquids and gases, in science. We have been doing experiments to introduce chemical reactions and show students how different substances can interact and create new substances.

To promote critical thinking and scientific method, we always start our experiment with a question.

For this experiment we started with the question, “What do you think will happen to the balloon when we combine vinegar and baking soda?”

The students, in small groups, discussed and predicted how the vinegar and baking soda would react, and how that reaction would affect the balloon.  From the group discussions, we formed our hypothesis: ”If the baking soda and vinegar mix, gas bubbles will form and the balloon will expand”

The materials needed included funnels, balloons, bottles, baking soda and vinegar. We were then ready to carry out our experiment.

Step 1: The funnels were used to add the baking soda into each balloon.

Step 2: Some vinegar was poured into the bottles.

Step 3.  The balloon was carefully fitted over the bottle opening ensuring not to allow the baking soda to fall into the vinegar.

Step 4. The balloon was then held up to allow the baking soda to fall into the vinegar.

Step 5. The chemical reaction and the effect on the balloon was observed.

In our observations, we saw lots of bubbles form in the bottles and the balloons then expanded. Some balloons even burst, as gases quickly inflated the balloons!

With the teacher’s further explanation, the students learnt that baking soda is a bicarbonate and vinegar is acetic acid. Baking soda and vinegar have an acid-base reaction. One of the products of this reaction is the gas, carbon dioxide, which makes bubbles and fills the balloon.

At last, we had the conclusion. The experiment and the result of it, supported our hypothesis.

Our science experiment was not just about learning and using the scientific method; we also had lots of fun by doing it. We would like to share the fun and excitement we had by showing some of our photos.