Science in the Classroom

Today we had a visit from Henrica who is a lead science teacher in Otago. She did some cool experiments with us.

First we did a bubble bomb. We used a similar technique to making volcanoes. First, we got some baking soda and wrapped it in a tissue, then put it in the small snap lock bag. Then we put some warm water in the bag and finally the malt vinegar. The chemical reaction produced foam and CO2, which made the bag expand, and eventually pop.

After that we did an experiment called candle and water. It involved a bowl half full of coloured water, a small candle and a jar. Henrica then lit the candle, waited for it to burn for a few seconds for it to warm up, then covered the candle with the jar so that the lip of the jar created an air-tight seal around the water. The candle quickly flickered and went out. But when the candle went out, the water got sucked up into the jar the equalised the pressure of the air outside. 

Finally, we did an experiment called the floating tea bag. Henrica emptied the contents of a tea bag tube and put the empty tube on a saucer and then she lit the top of it. The tea bag burnt quickly and when the flame was almost extinguished, the tea bag flew up to the ceiling because of the hot air rising.

We are focussing on using key words to explain what happens and draw diagrams to help show the process. This is an area that we all need to develop so we can be ready for Science at High School.

By Scott & Morgan

This experiment was to show us that warm air or water rises above the cooler air or water.

This was to show us how air heats up and expands. 

Candle and Water experiment