Science Lab Experiment: Making a Base
Demonstration: Making a Base
Object:To find out what happens when an active metal is added to water.
Materials:litmus paper, matches, wood splint, two test tubes, calcium, water
Diagram:
Method: Approximately 25 ml water was poured into a test tube. This was tested
with litmus paper and no change was noticed. A piece of calcium was added to
the water. The gas was collected in a test tube, which had been placed mouth
downward over the original tube. The liquid was later tested with litmus paper.
Observations: No change was noticed when the water was first tested with the litmus
paper. The calcium reacted vigorously with the water, producing smoke and
heat. A gas was collected and tested. The gas was proven to be hydrogen,
by its pop".
Conclusions: The litmus paper turned blue, showing that a base had formed. The base was
calcium hydroxide.
Ca + 2H20 ' Ca(OH)2
