February 24

PhET Interactive Simulation: Balancing Chemical Equations ⚖️

DUE February 25th at the end of class. 

In this activity, you will use an interactive simulation to practice balancing chemical equations by visually modeling how atoms rearrange during chemical reactions.

📌 What You’ll Do:

1️⃣ Explore the Introduction Mode

• Use the PhET Balancing Chemical Equations Simulation to balance equations by adjusting coefficients.

• Complete a chart by balancing reactions like:

  • Making Ammonia (N₂ + H₂ → NH₃)

  • Separating Water (H₂O → H₂ + O₂)

  • Combusting Methane (CH₄ + O₂ → CO₂ + H₂O)

• Use the balance scale tool to check if both sides of the equation are equal.

• Draw molecular models of balanced equations, color-coding the atoms for each element.

2️⃣ Play the Balancing Equations Game 🎯

• Click on the GAME mode (happy face icon).

• Start at Level 1 and work your way up to Level 3 as you improve.

• Record successfully balanced equations in the provided chart.

💡 Why This Matters:

Balancing equations is a key skill in chemistry! This simulation helps you visualize the process and practice trial-and-error balancing, reinforcing the Law of Conservation of Mass.

✅ Challenge yourself to reach Level 3! 🔬✨