Mystery Powders

MATERIALS:

     5 jars each containing a different powder
     water
     vinegar
     iodine
     1 candle in metal jar lid
     matches
     spring-type clothespins
     1 piece of aluminum foil
     chemplate
     6 plastic spoons
     toothpicks

PROCEDURE:

     You are going to test five different powders. For each test that you make, observe each powder carefully. Write your observations on the data sheet. When you have finished, you will discover a way to tell each powder from the others. You will then get a MYSTERY POWDER to test. You will try to find out what is in it.

Hand Lens:

1. Place a small amount of each powder on a square of black paper and observe the
   particles with a hand lens.
2. Record your observations in the table.

Water Test:

1. Place a small amount of each powder a separate well in the chemplate.
2. Put a few drops of water in each compartment. Stir the water with a toothpick.
    Be sure to use a clean toothpick each time you stir. Watch it for a minute or so.

Vinegar Test:

1. Place a small amount of each powder a separate well in the chemplate.
2. Put a few drops of vinegar on each pile. Stir with a clean toothpick each time.

Iodine Test:

1. Place a small amount of each powder a separate well in the chemplate.
2. Put a few drops of iodine on each pile. Stir with a clean toothpick each time.

Heat Test:

1. Make a foil spoon. Use a clothespin for a handle.
2. Place a little powder in the spoon.
3. Hold the spoon over a candle flame and heat the powder.