Identifying Substances - Keying Liquids

Grade and/or Subject:
Grade 5 Science, Physical Science, Chemistry, Electives — Oceanography & Environmental Science
Description:
  Use properties of substances and a dichotomous key to identify from 1 to 8 different mystery liquids. For identification, you can conduct hands-on experiments or use "Clue Cards." Properties include color, light transmission, viscosity, solubility, and fluorescence. Extend your learning to include explanations of the various properties. Test your understanding through a 5-item quiz.
Virginia Standards of Learning:
  Grade 5 Science (5.1, 5.3, 5.4)
Physical Science (PS.1, PS.2, PS.9)
Chemistry (CH.1, CH.2)
Electives—Oceanography & Environmental Science
NSE Standards:
  Science as inquiry; dichotomous keys; properties and changes of properties in matter; light energy and interactions with matter; science and technology.
Materials:
 

Computer with Internet Access
Hands-On Materials

  • Brown paper
  • Device for testing fluorescence such as a shoe box painted black on the inside and an ultraviolet light source such as a portable money detector available at scientific companies including Flinn Scientific.
  • Container such as a beaker or plastic cup
  • Dropper or swizzle stick
  • Samples of 9 "Mystery Liquids" in a 5 inch screw-top test tube with a "BB" inserted.
    • Baby shampoo (Sample 9)
    • Corn syrup (Sample 1)
    • Gear Oil (Sample 4)
    • Honey (Sample 3)
    • Hub Oil (Sample 7)
    • Low-cal maple syrup (Sample 2)
    • Mineral oil (Sample 8)
    • Molasses (Sample 5)
    • Vegetable oil - soy oil (Sample 6)
  • Water