This document outlines a practical investigation task on the reaction of iron with oxygen.

This document outlines a practical investigation task on the reaction of iron with oxygen.

Introduction:
Some metals burn in oxygen to form a metal oxide. This type of reaction is called combustion. When iron reacts with oxygen, the product formed is iron oxide ($\text{Fe}_2\text{O}_3$).

Aim:
To investigate how iron (steel wool) reacts with oxygen.

Skills to be Assessed:
Observing, Comparing, Predicting, Hypothesizing, Recording, and Investigating.

Apparatus/Materials:

• Steel wool
• Spirit/Bunsen burner
• Tongs/Pliers/Tweezers
• Safety goggles
• Pair of scissors
• Matches
• Beaker/Bottle
• Litmus paper

Safety Measures:

• Wear safety goggles during the practical investigation.
• Handle matches and burners carefully.
• Do not touch hot steel wool.
• Keep flammable materials away from the flame.

Method/Procedure:

1. Learners must work in groups of four or five.
2. Each group must collect the required apparatus and materials.
3. The activity should preferably be conducted outside the classroom.
4. Cut approximately 3 cm of steel wool using scissors.
5. Light the spirit lamp or Bunsen burner using a match.
6. Hold the steel wool in the flame until it ignites (You can also transfer the ignited steel wool into a gas jar with oxygen).
7. Observe the reaction between steel wool and oxygen.
8. Collect the oxide produced during the reaction.
9. Place the oxide in a beaker or bottle containing 1 $\text{cm}^3$ of water.
10. Dip a piece of litmus paper into the dissolved oxide and observe any colour change.