Patterns in reactions, with reference to the periodic table
Practical activities which look at the reactions of different groups of elements are always exciting. This list provides some advice on carrying out some traditional demonstrations and ideas for practicals which which explore reactivity. The resources link to the following topics:
- how patterns in reactions can be predicted with reference to the periodic table
- the order of metals and carbon in the reactivity series
Visit the secondary science webpage to access all lists: www.nationalstemcentre.org.uk/secondaryscience
Whilst this list provides a source of information and ideas for experimental work, it is important to note that recommendations can date very quickly. Do NOT follow suggestions which conflict with current advice from CLEAPSS, SSERC or recent safety guides. eLibrary users are responsible for ensuring that any activity, including practical work, which they carry out is consistent with current regulations related to health and safety and that they carry an appropriate risk assessment. Further information is provided in our Health and Safety guidance.
Demonstrating Chemistry: Exciting Elements
A great video that shows many extreme reactions that are not able to be done in the classroom. These include the more reactive alkali metals in water, sodium in chlorine, burning calcium in air, the reduction of copper oxide using magnesium powder, the reaction of sulphur with both iron and zinc and reactions of fluorine.
The Periodic Table: Ferocious Elements *suitable for home teaching*
This is a good video that explores reactivity of the elements and how this affects what we use them for. Initially the unreactive nature of gold and silver is discussed and compared with the reactive alkali metals and then the reactivity of halogens is looked at. There are some nice demonstrations that are not possible to do in the classroom.
Tales From the Prep Room: Alkali Metals
This is not a standard school demonstration but it is worth trying if you fancy something a bit different, perhaps to make a fun end to a lesson on the alkali metals. However, it is small scale so students may not see it that well unless you use a camera and project the images. Alternatively, you could show the film which shows how to light a match by dropping water onto a small piece of sodium or potassium on the end of the match.
Reacting elements with oxygen
This is a really good demonstration to show students how group I and II metals react with oxygen. It is quite a complicated set up so teachers will want to practise with the equipment if they have not used it before.
Where does carbon come in the reactivity series?
In this experiment, students heat carbon with various metal oxides, looking for evidence of a reaction. They use their results to determine carbon’s position in the reactivity series. Students can then observe as the teacher burns magnesium in carbon dioxide, producing carbon and magnesium oxide.