Science Fair Projects
chemistrymedium middle 4 days

Thermal Decomposition of Baking Soda: Measuring CO2 Released

This project involves heating baking soda to induce thermal decomposition and capturing the carbon dioxide gas released. The amount of CO2 can be measured to understand the chemical reaction.

Thermal Decomposition of Baking Soda: Measuring CO2 Released

Hypothesis

If baking soda is heated, then carbon dioxide will be released, and its amount can be measured.

Materials Needed

Baking soda — 100 gBuy
Heat source (Bunsen burner or hot plate) — 1Buy
Test tubes — 3Buy
Balloon — 3Buy
Measuring scale — 1Buy
Thermometer — 1Buy
Stopwatch — 1Buy
Safety goggles — 1Buy
Gloves — 1 pairBuy

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Step-by-Step Procedure

  1. 1

    Weigh 10 grams of baking soda and place it in a test tube.

  2. 2

    Attach a balloon over the mouth of the test tube.

  3. 3

    Heat the test tube gently using a Bunsen burner or hot plate.

  4. 4

    Observe as the balloon inflates due to the released gas.

  5. 5

    Measure the diameter of the balloon to estimate the volume of CO2.

  6. 6

    Allow the test tube to cool and measure the remaining mass.

  7. 7

    Record the data and calculate the amount of CO2 released per gram of baking soda.

  8. 8

    Repeat the experiment two more times for consistency.

Expected Results

Heating baking soda will release carbon dioxide, which inflates the balloon. The volume of the balloon can be used to determine the amount of CO2 released.

Variables

Independent Variable

Amount of baking soda

Dependent Variable

Volume of CO2 released

Controlled Variables

Temperature, Duration of heating, Initial mass of baking soda

Safety Notes

Use heat-resistant gloves and goggles. Handle heated materials with care to avoid burns.

Presentation Tips

  • Create a chart to compare CO2 volumes from each trial.

  • Include diagrams of the experimental setup.

  • Explain the chemical reaction involved in thermal decomposition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to baking soda when heated?

It decomposes to form sodium carbonate, water, and carbon dioxide.

Why use a balloon?

The balloon captures the released gas, allowing measurement of CO2 volume.

How can I ensure accurate results?

Ensure consistent temperature and timing for each trial.

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