Reaction Lab

Reaction Lab

Distinguishing between single displacement, double displacement, composition, and decomposition reactions

Teacher Background Information:

This lab discusses types of reactions and replaces traditional reactions involving chemicals such as lead (II) nitrate, barium chloride, and silver nitrate. This lab is designed to challenge students to identify types of chemical reactions and distinguish between those that use safer, less hazardous chemicals and those that are more dangerous. Students will make a choice as to which reaction they will perform using the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry. Students will ultimately learn the difference between composition, decomposition, single displacement, and double displacement reactions.

Safety Information:

Hydrochloric acid at lower concentrations is a skin irritant and if it comes into contact with the skin should be washed with soap and water. Copper (II) sulfate is a skin irritant and if it comes into contact with the skin should be washed with soap and water. Reaction Type C includes using a wooden splint to test for the generation of gases, which involves the use of matches in the classroom; proper safety using matches should be practiced. Part D involves the use of a Bunsen burner; use proper laboratory safety when using the Bunsen burner.

Educational Goals: Students will understand…

• How to distinguish between a single displacement, double displacement, composition, and decomposition reaction

• How to observe reactions and predict the product

• How to critique chemical reactions using the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry and compare their hazards

Student Objectives: Students will…

• Perform a composition, decomposition, single displacement, and double displacement reaction

• Make observations of chemical reactions and categorize them

• Write and balance chemical equations

• Analyze the reactions against the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry

Time: 1 x...