Acid Strengths
Recommended for grades 6–12.
Introduction
Acids react with metals. For example, hydrochloric acid reacts with zinc metal according to the equation
Strong acids react faster and more vigorously with metals than do weak acids. Because water solutions of acids contain ions, these solutions conduct electricity. The measure of electrical conductivity is related to the number of ions in solution. Conductivity units are microsiemens per centimeter (μS/cm).
Objectives
In this experiment, you will
- React zinc metal with various acids.
- Measure electrical conductivity.
- Investigate the relationships among acid strength, electrical conductivity, degree of ionization, and chemical activity.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
See all standards correlations for Physical Science with Vernier »
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.