Rust Race

By Jessica Behymer •

Grade Level	11
Subject Area	Chemistry
Duration	7-8 70 minute class periods
Background Knowledge	Students need to know the valence state of oxygen and the metals being tested. Students should be introduced to oxidation concepts. They should be familiar with safe laboratory and chemical handling practices.
Author	Jessica Behymer

Summary
Students begin by investigating the effects of pH on corrosion of iron, galvanized steel, coated steel, copper, and silver. They then investigated the amount of oxygen consumed during steel corrosion, and tested different coating materials for their ability to inhibit corrosion. They use this knowledge about corrosion to answer questions about construction materials and engineering design. Next, they designed a corrosion experiment and wrote a professional proposal for the experiment, which includes objectives, rationale, procedure, and feasibility. Finally, they carried out their experiment and wrote a professional report of their findings, conclusions, and recommendations.

Objectives
1. To test metals for corrosion 2. To measure the oxygen consumption during metal corrosion 3. To compare the effectiveness of different rust inhibitors 4. To write a professional experimental proposal and report

Materials Required
Dilute bleach solution Galvanized nails, 3 Iron nails, 8 Paper clips, 3 Pennies, 3 Nickels, 3 Petroleum jelly Clear nail polish Commercial rust inhibitor 2% salt solution Steel wool Vinegar solution Baking soda solution 1 M HCl 1 M NaOH 500 mL beaker, 1 100 mL beaker, 5 Balance Forceps Metric ruler Shredded paper Test tubes (16 x 125 mm), 2 Water Labels Cow eyes

Ohio Standards

Science
Scientific Inquiry
1) Make appropriate choices when designing and participating in scientific investigations by using cognitive and manipulative skills when collecting data and formulating conclusions from the data.
Earth and Space Sciences
1) Describe how Earth is made up of a series of interconnected systems and how a change in one system affects other systems.
2) Explain that humans are an integral part of the Earth’s system and the choices humans make today impact natural systems in the future.
Science and Technology
1) Predict how human choices today will determine the quality and quantity of life on Earth.
Scientific Ways of Knowing
1) Explain how scientific evidence is used to develop and revise scientific predictions, ideas or theories.

Mathematics
• None

Technology
• None

Documents

Lesson Plan