Investigating Rates of Reaction
Aim: The aim of this experiment is to analyse and understand rates of
reaction. In order to understand this, I have experimented using
different concentrations of hydrochloric acid and magnesium strips.
Timing how long it takes for the magnesium to dissolve. This
experiment and following information will give me a clear
understanding of this
Preliminary work: Before this experiment, we carried out a number of
other experiments in order to investigate the affect of things like
concentration and temperature had on a reaction between an acid and
usually marble. We used the laptops using a programme called “Science
investigation”. We investigated the time it took different
concentrations of acid to dissolve pieces of marble.. We also
investigated different ways of looking at the results for example,
recording the time increase during the actual experiment converting
this time into the rate of reaction. This helped give me an idea of
the type of experiments I was doing and helped me decide what I wanted
to do and how I wanted to do it.
My pilot study was extremely important as well because it allowed me
to check how well my experiment would be done and if any changes
needed to be made. I changed my experiment. I used magnesium instead
of marble, because it is more reactive. During the pilot study I was
also able to see which concentrations of acid would be ideal in order
to collect a more accurate set of results.
These previous experiments and plans were extremely helpful and
ensured that I would be able to carry out a smooth and efficient
experiment. Understanding this I was able to make a hopefully right
hypothesis.
Reaction between HCl and Mg
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In the reaction between hydrochloric acid and magnesium ribbon, the
hydrochloric acid will dissolve the magnesium and produce hydrogen
gas. All chemical reactions involve reactants which when mixed may
cause a chemical reaction which will make products. In my experiment
the reactants are hydrochloric acid and magnesium ribbon.