For Your Research
The Four Research Questions 1.What is the chemistry (including an equation) of the process? 2.What are the factors that impact on the reaction rate of this process? 3.Why would you want to control the reaction rate of the process? 4.Which of these factors can be manipulated to achieve the desired result?
How to Approach Question 1 Example Topic: The Treatment of Indigestion (Heartburn). What is the chemistry (including an equation) of the process?
First Step I Googled ‘indigestion antacid chemical reaction’. And selected the BBC Bitesize website, at: ence/chemical_material_behaviour/acids_bas es_metals/revise5.shtml
Search Results I found that an excess of hydrochloric acid in your stomach causes indigestion. Antacid tablets contain magnesium hydroxide or magnesium carbonate: pick one. When carbonates react to neutralize acid, a salt plus water plus carbon dioxide is produced. A general word equation is: acid + metal carbonate salt + water + carbon dioxide
Next Write a word equation: Hydrochloric acid + magnesium carbonate carbon dioxide + water + salt Write the chemical equation: HCl + MgCO 3 CO 2 + H 2 O + MgCl Balance it: 2HCl + MgCO 3 CO 2 + H 2 O + MgCl 2