10.+Gathering+data+through+all+the+senses

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In our kinetics unit this quarter, we did an introductory lab into learning more about chemical reactions and the kinetics involved in such reactions. In this lab, we added magnesium pieces to different concentrations of hydrochloric acids to observe the different rates of reactions. By simulataneously adding magensium to different acids, I was easily able to compare the data using what I could see and hear. The sizzling sound that came from the acid indicated that a reaction was taking place while I could also visually notice the changes that happened. It became apparent to me that the higher the concentration, the faster that rate is as the magnesium in the higher concentration acid disappeared first. In a different version of the lab, I was also able to us my vision to notice how more surface area leads to faster reaction rates as calcium carbonate in powder form reacted more quickly.

In the aspect of using my senses to gather data, I felt that it was an easying task to do. However, I did notice some weaknesses in my ability as I sometimes could not specifically explain what I could feel through my senses. I think that repeatedly doing this in the future will help me get used to gathering information through my senses.