Chemical Formulas: Reading the Code (Part 2)

What You'll Learn

Chemical formulas show the types and numbers of atoms in a molecule. CO₂ has one carbon and two oxygen atoms. The subscript tells how many of each atom.

Key Words

exothermic
reactant
product

Materials Needed

thermometer
strainer
ice cubes
salt
sugar

Safety First

Adult supervision recommended.
Do not taste any materials.
Wear safety goggles when mixing liquids.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read the introduction and identify the main idea of this lesson.

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

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 type of substance speeds up a chemical reaction without being used up?