Experiment 1.1: Making Observations

Procedure:

Step 1: Initial Observations

Examine the small solid object using your senses. In the data table in your student notebook, make a list of your observations. CAUTION: Never taste anything in a science experiment. Unknown substances may be hazardous.

Your Step 1 Observations:

Step 2: Magnifying Glass

Observe the object with a magnifying glass. Record what you see.

Use the magnifying glass to see details not visible to the naked eye

Your Step 2 Observations:

Step 3: Weight Measurement

Use the kitchen balance to determine the weight of the object. Add the weight (be sure to include units) to your list of observations.

Object Weight:

Step 4: Dimension Measurements

Use a centimeter ruler to measure two dimensions (length, width, height, or diameter). Record these observations and be sure to include units.

Dimension 1:

Dimension 2:

Step 5: Water Test

Place the object in the beaker of water and stir. Record any observations.

Watch for bubbling, dissolving, floating, or other changes

Your Step 5 Observations:

Step 6: Remove Object

Remove the object from the beaker.

Step 7: Alka Seltzer Test

Repeat steps 1 through 5 for the Alka Seltzer tablet. Record all observations in the data table of your student notebook.

Alka Seltzer Observations:

Step 8: Clean Up

Empty the beaker down the drain, rinse the beaker and return all materials to their proper place.

Conclusion:

Answer the following questions in a paragraph as you sum up what you learned:

How did the appearance of each object differ under the magnifying glass?
Which data were obtained by qualitative observations?
Which data were obtained by quantitative observations?
How did the instruments extend the observations you made with your senses?
How did the objects change when placed in the beaker of water?

Student Information