Group Number: ____________3_____________ Section: _____Hawking_____ Date Performed: __________________

Teacher’s Signature: ___________________ Score: ________________________Date Submitted: ___________________

Laboratory Activity No. __

Atoms, Molecules, and Ions

Introduction
Atoms are the smallest unit of matter that can't be broken down chemically. Atoms are
considered to be the basic building blocks of matter because they cannot be divided into smaller
particles by any chemical process. Atoms are considered to be the basic building blocks of matter
because they cannot be divided into smaller particles by any chemical process.
An atom consists of three types of subatomic particles: neutrons, protons, and electrons.
Neutrons and protons are both located in the nucleus of the atom; neutrons are neutrally charged
particles, and protons are positively charged particles. Electrons are negatively charged particles
which orbit the nucleus of the atom. Their arrangement and movement are the basis for many of
the chemical properties of the element.
Each type of atom is assigned an atomic number which tells the number of protons in the
atom. Normally, an atom has the same number of positive particles (protons) and negative particles
(electrons). So the number of protons is identical to the number of electrons, and both are identical
to the atomic number.
Molecules are groups of two or more atoms that are chemically bonded. Ions are atoms or
molecules that have gained or lost one or more of their valence electrons and therefore have a net
positive or negative charge. When an atom's outermost orbital gains or loses electrons (also known
as valence electrons), the atom forms an ion. An ion with more protons than electrons carries a net
positive charge and is called a cation. An ion with more electrons than protons carries a net
negative charge and is called an anion. The number of neutrons doesn't come into play since they
are electrically neutral. Changing the number of neutrons determines the isotope.
Objectives
 To determine the molecules present after breaking down the water molecule
 To determine what household materials are acids or bases using turmeric as indicator
Experiment #1: Electrolysis
Materials
 9V dry cell battery  250-mL beaker
 1-foot copper wire(2)  Distilled Water
 electrical tape  Baking Soda
 scissors
 Procedures Observations

Conclusion

Experiment #2: Acids and Bases using Turmeric

Materials
 ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder  1 teaspoon
 ¼ cup rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol  1 test tube rack
 250 m-L Beaker  Vinegar, soap, water, baking soda,
 1 pipette dropper lemon juice

 5 test tube
Procedures Observations
1. Combine the turmeric with the alcohol
in the beaker. Mix the two thoroughly.
This is your indicator. (An indicator is a
chemical that changes color with a
change in pH (acidity/basicity).) Record
your observations.
2. In test-tubes, mix one teaspoon of each
household chemical (vinegar, soap,
water, baking soda, lemon juice) to be
tested with a few drops of turmeric
indicator. (You will be able to test only
white or colorless substances). Record
your observations.

Data and Results

Household Materials Color Change Acid or Base

Vinegar

Soap

Water

Baking Soda

Lemon Juice
Conclusion
What is your indication in determining acidity and basicity?