Yesterday in class we did an experiment with hydrogen, magnesium, citric acid, and water. We did this to show the structures of atoms. We learned that atoms are created with three subatomic particles; protons (p+), electrons(e-), and neutrons (n^o). We also learned that the structure of an atom is similar to an onion. Each layer is called an energy level and this is where electrons are. Protons and neutrons are in the nucleus (the center and mass of the atom). After we learned about the basic structure of an atom, we learned about the periodic table and how to read each element to find out how many electrons, protons, neutrons, and the atomic mass. We learned that the number of electrons and protons is the atomic number and the amount of neutrons is the atomic mass minus the amount of protons. We then started our experiment.
We first started with a beaker and we had to fill it with magnesium. We coiled it up and it put it in along with citric acid. We then poured water into the beaker and put the balloon on right away. This ensured that the hydrogen, when it started to escape from the beaker would go into the balloon. Almost right away the magnesium started to fizzle and evaporate into the acid. The beaker then became really hot and started to smoke. The smoke, which was hydrogen, went into the balloon and the balloon began to inflate.
I believe this occurred because the hydrogen began to detach itself from the critic acid because the magnesium atoms took over the job of the hydrogen. That isolates the hydrogen, which rises, and goes into the balloon.
After the balloon filled up with hydrogen, we took it off the beaker and tied it off. The balloon began to float higher and higher because was lighter than the air around it. After this we attached it to a meter stick and lit a candle. We then put the balloon in the fire and there was an explosion. This was like a mini Hindenburg (an explosion). This occurred because hydrogen is highly reactive meaning with just a little flame, it can explode.
My experience with this was really good. I thought this experiment was a great way to learn about atoms and how the bond together. I collaborated well with my peers and we were successful with the experiment. I also found lighting the hydrogen on fire super fun. Looking back on this lab, I realized that I did actually learn a lot and that it was really enjoyable.
I believe this occurred because the hydrogen began to detach itself from the critic acid because the magnesium atoms took over the job of the hydrogen. That isolates the hydrogen, which rises, and goes into the balloon.
After the balloon filled up with hydrogen, we took it off the beaker and tied it off. The balloon began to float higher and higher because was lighter than the air around it. After this we attached it to a meter stick and lit a candle. We then put the balloon in the fire and there was an explosion. This was like a mini Hindenburg (an explosion). This occurred because hydrogen is highly reactive meaning with just a little flame, it can explode.
My experience with this was really good. I thought this experiment was a great way to learn about atoms and how the bond together. I collaborated well with my peers and we were successful with the experiment. I also found lighting the hydrogen on fire super fun. Looking back on this lab, I realized that I did actually learn a lot and that it was really enjoyable.