Exothermic and endothermic reactions
The resources in this list provide several memorable and often spectacular demonstrations which illustrate both exothermic and endothermic reactions, together with suggested investigations for students to carry out themselves.
The resources will help deliver the following topics:
- energy changes on changes of state (qualitative)
- exothermic and endothermic chemical reactions (qualitative)
Visit the secondary science webpage to access all lists: www.nationalstemcentre.org.uk/secondaryscience
Whilst this list provides a source of information and ideas for experimental work, it is important to note that recommendations can date very quickly. Do NOT follow suggestions which conflict with current advice from CLEAPSS, SSERC or recent safety guides. eLibrary users are responsible for ensuring that any activity, including practical work, which they carry out is consistent with current regulations related to health and safety and that they carry an appropriate risk assessment. Further information is provided in our Health and Safety guidance.
Banging Chemistry: Fast and Furious *suitable for home teaching*
A series of nine quick-fire exothermic and endothermic reactions, to help inspire science students. They can be used to help students in understanding rates of reaction and energy changes. Each example includes helpful tips on how to carry out the demonstrations safely and successfully in the classroom.
Frothy Foam
In this dramatic demonstration, potassium iodide catalyses the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide to oxygen and water. This is an exothermic reaction and water is produced as steam. Food colouring and washing up liquid mixed in with the hydrogen peroxide create coloured fountains of oxygen bubbles during the reaction. A glowing splint can be made to relight in the bubbles, showing that oxygen is present. The resource contains a video and teacher and technician notes.
Sodium Ethanoate Stalagmite
This is a short video showing the instant crystallisation of sodium ethanoate - more commonly known as dry ice.
Hand warmers
A really good unit of work looking at the chemistry of hand warmers. Initially students compare reusable and disposable hand warmers before making their own using sodium ethanoate (sodium acetate). The resource contains a pupil book and teacher notes.
Frozen Assets
Some good activities around freezing/melting and heat changes around ice.
