In this Activity, students determine the concentration (percent volume) of oxygen in air. They place small quantities of fine steel wool into a test tube that is then inverted in a beaker of water. Oxygen in the trapped air reacts with the iron to form rust. The Activity ties in well with atmospheric chemistry. Instructors could discuss the rusting reaction as an example of a redox reaction during a unit on electrochemistry. Students also use their knowledge of gas laws and partial pressure to determine the percent volume of oxygen.
Citation:
Journal Staff; 2001, 78, 512A.
Link:
Year:
2001
issue:
4
Page:
512A
Article type:
Concepts: