Exothermic Reactions Using Steel Wool and Vinegar

Introduction

• Hosts: Ryan and Adam
• Topic: Exploring exothermic reactions with steel wool and vinegar
• Objective: Demonstrating how certain reactions release energy in the form of heat

Key Concepts

• Exothermic Reaction: A chemical reaction that releases more energy (as light or heat) than it consumes.
• Oxidation Reaction: Involves the loss of electrons from an atom, commonly results in rusting when iron is involved.

Equipment and Materials

• Extra fine steel wool
• White vinegar
• Saran Wrap or paper
• Thermometer
• Glass or beaker
• Bowl
• Safety: Apron, lab coat, gloves, and goggles recommended.

Experimental Procedure

1. Initial Temperature Measurement

   • Wrap steel wool around thermometer.
   • Place in glass/beaker until temperature stabilizes (control measurement).

2. Soaking Steel Wool

   • Pour vinegar into a bowl.
   • Soak steel wool in vinegar for a few minutes.

3. Post-Soak Procedure

   • Remove steel wool, squeeze out excess vinegar.
   • Wrap steel wool around thermometer and place back in glass/beaker.
   • Cover with Saran Wrap.

4. Observation

   • After 10 minutes, temperature leveled off at 28.9°C.
   • Steel wool turns reddish-brown compared to untreated steel wool.

Reaction Explanation

• Material Composition: Steel wool is made of iron alloy with a protective coating.
• Role of Vinegar: Acetic acid in vinegar removes the protective coating, exposing steel to rust.
• Oxidation Process:
  • Oxygen in air combines with iron to form iron oxide (rust).
  • Iron loses electrons to oxygen, causing oxidation.
  • Energy released as heat, classifying it as exothermic.
  • Also produces iron acetate.
  • Rusting continues until surface is fully rusted or oxygen is depleted.

Conclusion

• Demonstrated an exothermic oxidation reaction using common materials.
• Highlighted changes in temperature and color as indicators of the reaction.

Additional Information

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