Properties of Materials

What You'll Learn

A compound's properties differ from its elements. Sodium is a reactive metal and chlorine is a toxic gas, but together they form sodium chloride—common table salt.

Key Words

boiling
density

Materials Needed

food coloring
plastic bottles
balloons
measuring cups

Safety First

Clean up spills immediately to prevent slipping.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read about Properties of Matter and write down three key facts.

Step 2 — Do

Conduct a chromatography experiment: use a coffee filter and markers to separate the pigments in different colored inks.

Step 3 — Observe

Watch carefully for any changes and note the time.

Step 4 — Record

Create a data table to organize your measurements.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is a solution?