Burning - Presentation

During an interactive presentation on the chemistry of burning, students are introduced to the concept of irreversible changes, specifically focusing on the process of combustion. The local fire service visits Danny and James' class, where a fireperson explains the essential components of the fire triangle: oxygen, fuel, and heat. These three elements are crucial for the initiation of a fire. Students learn that flames are the visible result of the hot gases produced when a fuel burns in the presence of oxygen, typically emitting carbon dioxide and water vapour. The glowing of flames is attributed to the heated carbon atoms, and the process is identified as an exothermic reaction due to the release of heat. The term 'combustion' is clarified as the scientific term for burning a fuel in oxygen.

The lesson further explores the principles of fire through a series of experiments and questions that encourage students to think critically about the conditions necessary for combustion. One activity involves observing the effect of oxygen availability on a burning candle covered by glasses of different sizes, leading to discussions on the role of carbon dioxide in fire extinguishment. Another part of the lesson examines the mass of a candle before and after being lit, demonstrating the concept of mass loss due to the conversion of solid wax into gaseous byproducts. Students are also challenged to sort substances into fuels and non-fuels and to write chemical equations for reactions such as the burning of a candle. The presentation concludes with a reflection on the learning outcomes, ensuring students can identify the components needed for fire, understand the new substances formed, recognise the irreversible nature of burning, and name signs indicative of chemical reactions.