Contextualization

Theoretical Introduction

Matter is everything that occupies space and has mass, and it has numerous properties and characteristics. Studying its general properties is a key essential to understanding many phenomena that occur in our daily lives.

In the first part of this experience, we will approach the fundamentals of matter, that is, properties that do not depend on the quantity of matter present. They are: inertia, mass, extension, impenetrability, compressibility, divisibility, and indestructibility.

In a second stage, we will explore the different physical states of matter (solid, liquid, and gaseous) and how they behave under different conditions, such as variations in temperature and pressure.

Contextualization

Studying the general properties of matter is fundamental for a series of practical and theoretical applications. Whether in industry, medicine, climate studies, the development of new materials, food, in short, in all fields of science, the properties of matter play a crucial role.

The concepts that will be explored in this project are also essential for understanding other areas of Chemistry, such as chemical reactions, thermodynamics, organic chemistry, among others. Therefore, a solid foundation in these topics will be of great value for the next steps in Chemistry studies.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: The Magical Properties of Matter

Project Objective

Research, explore, experiment, and present the general properties of matter through practical experiments and small demonstrations, as well as its behavior in different physical states.

Detailed Project Description

In this project, you, divided into groups of 3 to 5 people, will conduct research, experiments, and theoretical presentations related to the general properties of matter. In the end, you should prepare a detailed report containing the project's development, experiments conducted, results obtained, and conclusions.

Required Materials

1. Balloons (enough for all groups)
2. Water (enough to fill the balloons)
3. Large container, in which plenty of water can be placed
4. Freezer
5. Salt
6. Styrofoam (or other thermal insulating material)
7. Incandescent light bulb with socket
8. Safety goggles
9. Sugar and yeast (to demonstrate the divisibility of matter)

Detailed Step-by-Step

1. Regarding the property of inertia: each group must create a presentation illustrating this property with examples from everyday life.

2. Concerning the properties of expansion and compressibility, perform the following experiment: fill a balloon with water and place it in a container with water in the freezer. Observe and note what happens after a few hours.

3. To demonstrate the divisibility of matter, each group must perform the fermentation experiment, which consists of mixing sugar with yeast in a container sealed with a balloon on the mouth. Observe and record what happens.

4. Impenetrability can be demonstrated by placing a balloon filled with air near an incandescent light bulb (be careful not to burn the balloon). What happens to the air inside the balloon? Note your observations.

Project Deliverables

At the end of the project, the deliverable will consist of a well-structured report containing the following segments:

1. Introduction: The report should start with an introductory text that contextualizes the theme, its relevance and application in the real world, as well as the objective of this project.

2. Development: In this section, the student must explain the theory behind the general properties of matter, explain the activity in detail, indicate the methodology used, and finally present and discuss the results obtained.

3. Conclusion: The report should conclude by summarizing its main points, explaining the learnings obtained, and the conclusions drawn from the project.

4. Bibliography: Indicate the sources on which you relied to work on the project such as books, web pages, videos, etc.

The reports must be submitted within one month after the project assignment, and the estimated execution time is between five to ten hours per participating student.

Remember: the key to a good project is collaboration, so make sure to work together to achieve the best results!