Describe a fourth scenario in which either the Law of Conservation of Matter or the Law of Conservation of Energy could be observed. Using as many sentences as needed, describe how an experiment could be set up to further explore your recorded observation. The goal is to show understanding of the concepts in the lesson
Fourth Scenario: Combustion of a Candle
In this scenario, we can observe the Law of Conservation of Matter and the Law of Conservation of Energy during the combustion of a candle. When a candle burns, it undergoes a chemical reaction and both matter and energy are conserved.
To set up an experiment to further explore this observation, we can follow these steps:
1. Material Required: A candle, a glass beaker, a scale, a thermometer, and a stopwatch.
2. Weigh the candle and record its initial mass.
3. Place the candle in the middle of the glass beaker, making sure it stands upright and is stable.
4. Light the candle and start the stopwatch to record the time.
5. Observe the candle as it burns, paying attention to any physical changes such as melting wax, the formation of soot, and the brightness of the flame.
6. Monitor the temperature inside the beaker using a thermometer.
7. Let the candle burn completely until it extinguishes on its own.
8. Once the candle has burned out, allow it to cool completely.
9. Weigh the beaker with any remaining wax residue and record the final mass.
10. Analyze the data collected to observe the conservation of matter and energy.
Observations:
During the experiment, you would notice that the candle gradually burns and emits heat and light. The wax melts and converts into a liquid state, and then it evaporates, reacting with oxygen from the air to produce carbon dioxide and water vapor. The flame gradually diminishes until it completely goes out.
Analysis:
After the experiment, compare the initial and final weights of the candle and beaker to ensure a conservation of matter. The difference in weight between the initial and final measurements represents the amount of wax that was consumed during combustion.
Furthermore, measure the temperature change inside the beaker to identify the energy released during the combustion process. The rise in temperature indicates the energy transferred to the surroundings as heat.
By comparing the observed physical changes, weight differences, and energy transfer, you will be able to validate the Law of Conservation of Matter and the Law of Conservation of Energy in the context of the combustion of a candle.