What Is a Chemical Reaction? (Part 2)

What You'll Learn

In a chemical reaction, substances called reactants are transformed into new substances called products. The total mass stays the same because atoms are rearranged, not created or destroyed.

Key Words

compound
mixture

Materials Needed

vinegar
baking soda
cups
spoons
food coloring
plastic bottles

Safety First

Wear safety goggles when mixing liquids.
Wash hands after handling materials.
Be careful with scissors — ask an adult for help if needed.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Look at the vocabulary words and write a definition for each in your own words.

Step 2 — Do

Build a model of an atom using craft supplies. Show protons, neutrons, and electrons in the correct arrangement. Label each particle.

Step 3 — Observe

Note any unexpected results and think about why they happened.

Step 4 — Record

Share your findings with the class or a partner and discuss what you learned.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is a mixture?