Science at key stage 3 (Year 7)
Unit 7F: Simple chemical reactions
Section 7: What is produced when fuels burn?
|
|
Objectives |
| Children should learn: |
- that fuels are substances that release energy when they burn
- that fossil fuels are rich in compounds containing carbon
- that burning fossil fuels results in the production of carbon dioxide
- that natural gas is called methane, and carbon dioxide and water are produced when it burns
|
Activities |
|
Outcomes |
|
Children: |
- Elicit pupils' ideas about fuels by asking them what they understand by the term and what examples they can give of fuels. Explain that fossil fuels are rich in carbon and ask pupils to suggest what might be formed when they burn.
- Demonstrate that carbon dioxide (and water) is produced when methane burns. If possible, extend the demonstration by using other fuels containing hydrogen and carbon,
eg wax, ethanol, wood. Discuss with pupils whether it is likely that carbon dioxide and water could be turned back into fuel.
- Help pupils make a summary of information about burning fossil fuels.
|
|
- name a range of fuels and explain the meaning of the term 'fuel'
- generalise that carbon dioxide is produced when carbon-containing fuels burn
- summarise burning of methane in a word equation
|
|
Points to note |
- The formation of fossil fuels and burning of fuels to release energy is covered in unit 7I 'Energy resources'. In this unit teachers may wish to concentrate on identifying the products of burning.
- Pupils often think that energy, like gas, is a material and has mass.
- Environmental effects of burning fossil fuels are covered later in unit 9G 'Environmental chemistry'.
Safety
- employer's risk assessments on the use of fuels should be followed. Eye protection should be worn. Small quantities of fuels should be used and storage bottles kept well away from where the fuels are burnt
|
|
|
This unit is divided into sections. Each section contains a sequence of
activities with related objectives and outcomes. You can view this unit by
moving through the sections or print/download the whole unit.
|
|
|
