What Is a Chemical Reaction?

What You'll Learn

In a chemical reaction, substances called reactants are transformed into new substances called products. The total mass stays the same because atoms are rearranged, not created or destroyed.

Key Words

electron
ion

Materials Needed

ice cubes
salt
sugar
vinegar
baking soda

Safety First

Work in a well-ventilated area when using vinegar or other strong-smelling substances.
Dispose of materials properly after the experiment.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Look at the vocabulary words and write a definition for each in your own words.

Step 2 — Do

Build a model of an atom using craft supplies. Show protons, neutrons, and electrons in the correct arrangement. Label each particle.

Step 3 — Observe

Note any unexpected results and think about why they happened.

Step 4 — Record

Share your findings with the class or a partner and discuss what you learned.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is a mixture?