Can't Judge A Powder

Basic Info
Can't Judge a Powder is a chemistry event. The goal is to teach Science Olympians about the importance of observation of many things in a short period of time. Normally you get 25-35 minutes of using different substance and observe the reaction of the powder that the event coordinator provides.

What You Need to Know
You should have a understanding of different types of reactions ie. chemical and physical. Also know how to use the lab equipment safely.

Observations versus Inferences
Observations versus Inferences An observation is the gathering of information by using our five senses: sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. There are two types of observations, qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative observations describe what we observe, such as the sky is blue. Quantitative observations measure what we observe, using numbers, such as the flower has seven petals. Both types of observations are necessary for this event. An inference is an explanation for the observation that you have made. They are based on previous experiences and prior knowledge. While these are important, during a competition you only want to make observations in order to receive the most credit for you answers.

Practice: Label each of the following observation or inference.
 * 1) The powder dissolves in water.
 * 2) The powder is acidic.
 * 3) The powder is soluble in HCl.
 * 4) The powder conducts electricity when dissolved in water.
 * 5) The pH paper becomes amber when dipped into a solution of the powder.
 * 6) The conductivity tester lights up when dipped into a solution of the powder.

Links and Files
example of observation sheet

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