Description
Investigate how macro factors affect the reaction rate between solid calcium carbonate and hydrochloric acid. Teach this laboratory using the guided activity or the inquiry activity. In the guided activity, students vary the concentration of hydrochloric acid while the mass of calcium carbonate stays the same. In the inquiry activity, teams introduce new variables into their design such as the surface area, temperature change, or a catalyst. By analyzing the volume of reaction product carbon dioxide produced over time, students learn how the changes affected the reaction speed. Materials are sufficient for 30 students working in pairs. Both activities include assessment questions that follow the format of the AP® Chemistry Exam free-response questions.
This kit provides the following AP® Chemistry experiences: design a procedure to collect data, analyze data, and plot data. The activity offers a real-world connection to acid deposition eroding historic limestone or marble buildings and sculptures over time, resulting in structural damage or disfigurement. Materials are sufficient for 30 students working in pairs. Digital teacher’s manual, included FREE with kit purchase, is a 12-month eBook license to the Decomposition of Calcium Carbonate teacher’s manual. You can also access the digital student guide for this kit for free at
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