Contextualization

The nomenclature of bases is an important part of inorganic chemistry. Bases, in chemistry, are substances that release the OH- (hydroxide) anion in aqueous solution. This concept, although initially may seem complex, is commonly used in our daily lives. Cleaning products, for example, make use of the property of bases to dissolve fats.

The name of bases is formed by the combination of two parts: the name of the anion (hydroxide) and the name of the cation. This helps to identify the composition of the base and understand how it was formed. The nomenclature of bases is a fundamental concept in chemistry that is used in many branches of science.

Bases are widely used in various areas, from industry to medicine. In medicine, for example, magnesium hydroxide, a base, is used as a stomach antacid. In industry, bases are used in manufacturing processes, such as paper manufacturing, cleaning products, soaps, and even in food processing.

Introduction

In our daily lives, we make use of several bases without really realizing it. By learning about the nomenclature of bases, we are not only acquiring knowledge that can be applied in school, but we are also learning about how things around us are made and how they work.

Understanding the nomenclature of bases requires the understanding of various fundamental concepts of chemistry, such as the concept of ions, aqueous solutions, and chemical reactions. This involves not only memorizing names and rules, but also understanding the processes and concepts behind these rules.

Chemists have developed a nomenclature system that allows us to identify a base based on its name. This system is used internationally and is essential for clear and accurate communication among scientists. By learning this system, students are preparing for future studies in chemistry and equipping themselves with a vital tool for effective communication in the field of science.

For a deeper understanding of the subject, students can use the following reliable resources in Portuguese:

1. Book: "General Chemistry and Chemical Reactions", by Kotz, Treichel & Weaver.
2. Website: All about chemistry
3. Video: Naming Bases - Simple Chemistry

Practical Activity: "Naming the World of Bases"

Project Objective

The objective of this project is for students to learn how to name bases following the official IUPAC nomenclature, as well as to understand the theoretical aspects involved, such as: formation of anions, formation of bases in aqueous solution, and the impact and usefulness of bases in our daily lives.

Detailed Project Description

The project will unfold in two main parts: a research and infographic elaboration part, and a practical experimentation part.

Part 1: Research and Infographic

Students should conduct a comprehensive theoretical research, which will later be compiled into an infographic. The infographic should contain:

1. The definition of bases.
2. The process of base formation.
3. The nomenclature of bases according to IUPAC.
4. Examples of bases in our daily lives and their applications.

The research should be done using various materials (books, scientific journals, reliable websites, etc) and all sources used should be properly referenced.

Part 2: Practical Experimentation

The groups will then be tasked with taking a "tour" of the chemistry laboratory, where they will identify and name different bases they find there, using the studied nomenclature. This should be documented in the form of a short video, where the groups will explain the nomenclature of each base found and talk about their properties and applications in daily life.

Required Materials

For Part 1: Computer with internet access, graphic editing software for the infographic, and research materials (books, journals, etc).

For Part 2: Access to the school's chemistry laboratory, personal protective equipment (PPE), camera to film the video.

Detailed Step-by-Step

1. Formation of groups of 3 to 5 students.
2. Research on the topics necessary for the infographic creation.
3. Creation of the infographic and peer review.
4. Preparation and visit to the chemistry laboratory.
5. Video recording of the laboratory experience.
6. Editing and finalization of the video.
7. Writing the project report.
8. Presentation of the project results.

The project should be carried out within a four-week period, with the time distribution being the responsibility of each group.

Project Deliverables

At the end of the project, the following will be delivered:

1. The digital infographic, visually demonstrating the theoretical research conducted.
2. The short video, documenting the practical experience in the laboratory.
3. The project report, containing the Introduction, Development, Conclusion, and Bibliography.

The report should follow the following structure:

• Introduction: The project should be contextualized, explaining the importance of base nomenclature knowledge and the objective of the activity.
• Development: In this part, the research process, infographic construction, laboratory experience, and short video elaboration should be detailed. Also, the project results should be discussed.
• Conclusion: Here, students should express their conclusions about the project and the knowledge acquired, revisiting the points addressed in the development and pointing out possible future applications of this knowledge.
• Bibliography: Students should list all sources of information used during the project.