Stanford University Factors that Affect the Rate of Reaction Chemistry Experiment Design Your own Experiment: Factors that Affect the Rate of a Reaction I

Stanford University Factors that Affect the Rate of Reaction Chemistry Experiment Design Your own Experiment: Factors that Affect the Rate of a Reaction

Introduction:

An antacid tablet contains citric acid and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). When you drop the tablet in liquid, the acid and the baking soda react – this produces the fizz.

3HCO-1 + HCHO
3 (aq) 3 6 5 7 (aq)

bicarbonate ion citric acid

 3CO

2 (g)

+3HO + CHO-3
2 6 5 7 (aq)

citrate ion

Several factors affect the rate of a reaction. In this investigation, you will design experiments to test three factors that may affect the rate of the reaction that takes place when an antacid tablet dissolves in a liquid.

Possible Materials:

jars, antacid tablets, water, ice, timing device, thermometer, vinegar (an acetic acid solution), salt, measuring spoons, measuring cups

Procedure:

Choose three factors to investigate.
Form hypotheses about how the factors will affect the rate of thereaction.
List the steps you will follow to test your hypotheses. Consult withyour Learning Coach before performing your experiments.
Carry out your experiments. Be sure to adhere to lab safety rulesas you perform the experiments.
Record your observations.
Draw conclusions from your experiments. Describe the relationshipsbetween the three factors you tested and the rate of the reaction. Explain whether or not your results support your hypotheses. Note any sources of errors.
Complete a formal laboratory report which includes a heading, materials, hypotheses, procedures, data, and conclusions.