How do chemists reach 100% efficiency in a reaction? And, why is efficiency so important? Young chemists answer this question and learn how, by using catalysts that can maximize yield and reduce waste. 

Concepts

catalysts, reactants, products, conservation of mass

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Prior to showing the video, have the class write down the ingredients they need to make a cake (not the kind from a box!), then have them note what each ingredient does; demonstrate cause and effect by discussing what would happen to the cake if each ingredient was not used

 

Classroom Considerations

• Does not require any prior knowledge
• Check understanding of the concepts by discussing the possible effects of unused reactants in a reaction (low yield, waste, etc.)
• 11th installment in a 12-part Green Chemistry series

Pros

• The content reinforces the Green Chemistry Principle of practicing safe, efficient science
• Animations serve to make the topic easy to understand for pupils of all achievement levels

Cons

• None