Colour, Temperature Changes and Effervescence
Colour, Temperature Changes and Effervescence
Colour Indicators:
- These are chemicals that change colour depending on the pH level - they can help determine if a solution is acidic, neutral or basic.
- Example: Litmus paper turns red in acidic conditions and blue in alkaline conditions.
- Universal indicator, another example, gives a range of colours from red (very acidic) to purple (very alkaline).
Temperature Changes:
- In a chemical reaction, heat energy can be taken in or given out. This is a way to determine if a reaction is exothermic (releases heat) or endothermic (absorbs heat).
- For example, if a test tube gets hot during a reaction, it’s likely an exothermic reaction. If it gets cold, it’s probably an endothermic reaction.
- The temperature change can be measured using a thermometer and the data can be used to calculate the enthalpy change of the reaction.
Effervescence:
- This is the formation of gas bubbles in a liquid caused by a chemical reaction. It’s often observed as “fizzing” or “bubbling”.
- An example of this phenomenon is when an antacid tablet is dropped in water, releasing carbon dioxide gas.
- In a laboratory setting, if effervescence is observed during a chemical reaction, it suggests that a gas is being produced.
Potential Tips for Revision:
- To better understand these concepts, try to visualize or physically demonstrate them with safe at-home experiments.
- Remember to handle any chemicals with appropriate safety measures, and speak to a teacher or mentor if you are unsure about anything.
- Always stay curious and determined - understanding the behaviour of substances and reactions is a key part of comprehending our world!