LESSON DESCRIPTION:
Students get to make loud (but very safe!) explosions as they combust a small quantity of the same gases that propel the Space Shuttle. This lesson is a noisy and exciting introduction to the topic of electrochemistry. An electrolysis apparatus is used to break up water molecules into their component atoms and then form molecules of hydrogen and oxygen gas. Small amounts of these bubbles when combined with a spark will create loud but safe explosions. These bubbles can even be placed in the hands of the students and then exploded.

TIME REQUIRED: 20-60 minutes

OBJECTIVES:
Students will learn about the composition of water, electrolysis, and the properties of hydrogen and oxygen. Students will learn how chemicals can react to form other chemicals and how, in the process of a chemical reaction, energy is usually either stored or produced. Students will also learn why these gasses are used to propel the Space Shuttle.

FACILITIES REQUIREMENTS:
Indoors or outdoors.; requires table space. Because this experiment involves combustion and is very noisy, permission must be obtained before doing it in many school facilities.

SAFETY:
Students will need to cover their ears when the bubbles are exploded. This lesson has been

CALIFORNIA SCIENCE STANDARDS ALIGNMENT

Kindergarden: 1st Grade: 2nd Grade:   3rd Grade:   4rth Grade:   5th Grade:   6th Grade: