Fuel Mystery Dis-Solved!
Students investigate the simulated use of solid rocket fuel by using an antacid tablet. They observe the effect that surface area and temperature has on chemical reactions. They also compare the reaction time using two different reactants: water and vinegar. Finally, students report their results in bar graph format. In the continuing hypothetical scenario of this unit, what students learn builds their background knowledge towards designing the best rocket to get their cargo into space.
Students examine rocket fuel using antacid tablets.Copyright http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QLEdThD8FJU/maxresdefault.jpg
Engineers must understand chemical reactions when designing rocket propellants. Safety, amount of thrust and amount of heat are all important considerations for rocket performance. Engineers must know and understand the properties of fuel in order to design rockets that effectively maximize fuel consumption.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Describe how temperature and surface area exposure affect the rate at which fuel is consumed.
- Explain why engineers want to know about the properties of a fuel when designing rockets.
- Create a bar graph of collected experimental data.