Collision Theory Reaction Rate Glow Sticks Editable Mini Lab Activity

Collision theory is certainly tough to visualize. In this lab activity students study the postulates of the collision theory using reaction rate of glow sticks to investigate the effect of concentration, the effect of agitation and the effect of temperature with respect to collision theory and rate of a chemical reaction.

WHO IS IT FOR?

• This collision theory mini lab is perfect for first year chemistry students.
• It can also be used to teaching physical science students about the importance of testing just one variable at a time.

HOW TO USE IT

• 2 glow sticks of the same size to test agitation
• Add in an additional glow stick of a different size to test concentration
• Put the two glowsticks of the same size into a warm and cold water bath to test effect of temperature.
• I often choose to begin with a teacher demo to get things started (and to keep this activity short).
• This can be an inquiry based lesson if you do less talking/teaching and let the students grapple with it and come to conclusions on their own instead

FEATURES

• Engaging
• Inquiry activity
• Written conclusion to synthesize thoughts
• Post lab questions to help guide students through concept

WHAT MATERIALS ARE REQUIRED?

per group of students (unless you'd like to use this as a demo):

• 2 beakers or cups
• warm and cold water (perhaps with ice)
• 3 glow sticks: 1 fat, 1 skinny, 1 either fat or skinny (or you can eliminate the concentration portion from the lab activity)

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Editable lab activity: pre and post lab questions and a written conclusion
• "How to Write a Chemistry Lab Report"
• Conclusion sentence starter prompt for differentiation
• Answer key with sample responses
• Slide show of photos and time lapse video if you have remote students or want this to be a homework assignment instead

INTERESTED IN MORE?

You can find this lab activity in my Full Year Chemistry Lab Book.

This product by Kelsey Reavy is copyrighted for single classroom only. This product may not be resold and can be copied for personal use within a classroom only. If you have questions, please email kelsey@kelseyreavy.com © Kelsey Reavy