Magic Paper
Summary
This is a brief activity showing neutralization reactions. It is best used during the introduction of this concept. It briefly outlines what they are and what they produce. It asks the students to explain neutralization reactions and what they produce. Students use q-tips, lemon juice, liquid soap and goldenrod copy paper. Must be goldenrod paper - its orange. The paper acts as an indicator changing colors. Students can see the neutralization of the acid in the lemon juice and base of the soap.
CollapseLearning Goals
This activity is designed so the students observe that the paper acts as an indicator and observe that an acid can neutralize a base.
Context for Use
Used in high school or middle school, any class size, takes about 10-20 minutes, students need goldenrod copy paper, q-tips, lemon juice, liquid soap, small containers, students should have some exposure to chemical reactions, it is an activity to break up, or emphasize or introduce in a lecture on neutralization reactions.
Description and Teaching Materials
Students use solutions of lemon juice and soap to visually see neutralization reactions on paper. I use it as an introduction to a lecture on neutralization reactions. Students need goldenrod copy paper, q-tips, lemon juice, liquid soap, small containers for the juice and soap. handout with instructions for students (Microsoft Word 25kB Sep29 08)
Teaching Notes and Tips
You must use goldenrod paper or it wont work - try it yourself first - its fun.
Assessment
Students turn in an explanation of what they think is happening to the lemon juice, soap and paper during the activity. I look to see if students note the paper is an indicator and if they properly describe what happens during a neutralization reaction.
Standards
Physical Science Strand, Substrand B Chemical reactions, standard the student will describe chemical reactions and the factors that influence them.