Is it a substance? Mixture? Solution? Or suspension? How do you know?
In General Science, students are beginning their chemistry unit. Their first chapter has students learning about the classification of matter and how to use physical properties to classify, identify and choose materials. Matter is anything that takes up space and has mass. It can be classified as a substance, or matter that has the same composition throughout (element or compound), or a mixture, which has varying composition (heterogeneous and homogeneous). Mixtures can be further subdivided into solutions, colloids, and suspensions, which are categorized based upon the size of the largest particle. Further, a physical property is any characteristic that can be measured or observed about a material without changing the composition of the material. Examples include viscosity, conductivity, malleability, hardness, melting point, boiling point, and density. Scientists use these properties to identify materials and to choose appropriate materials.
In the Chocolate Milk Activity, students will classify chocolate powder, chocolate syrup, and milk based on their physical properties, such as viscosity, boiling point, and density. Then, they will have the opportunity to enjoy a glass of yummy chocolate milk!
Courtney Sims
Science Teacher
Sounds fun! Maybe our chem teacher will do this someday.
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