Year 7 - Science
Bunsen burners
Solid, liquid, gas states and changes of state
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
This unit covers the properties of solids, liquids, and gases using the particle model, including gas pressure. It explains changes of state in terms of the particle model while developing skills in using appropriate techniques, apparatus, and materials in lab work.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to light a Bunsen burner safely and control the temperature of the flame.
Key Notes
- The heavy base of a Bunsen burner does not get hot
- Opening the air hole on a Bunsen burner changes the flame from orange and sooty to a hotter, cleaner, blue flame.
- Adjusting the gas tap controls the size of the Bunsen burner flame.
- A splint used to light a Bunsen burner should be lit from the nearest Bunsen burner that is already lit.
- A lit splint should be carried with the flame angled slightly downwards and shielded by the other hand.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Bunsen burner: A piece of laboratory equipment used to heat substances in scientific experiments.
- blue flame: A hot flame used for heating, produced when the collar is open to allow more air/oxygen in. It is dangerous because it can be difficult to see.
- safety flame: An orange flame produced when the collar is closed, allowing less air/oxygen in. It is cooler than a blue flame and easier to see, making it safer.
- collar: A small metal piece that can be turned to change the flame from orange to blue; it does not get hot.
- splint: A thin, long piece of wood used to light Bunsen burners.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- All the Bunsen is hot, flames are the same temperature.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain the scientific idea in this lesson using two key points.
The heavy base of a Bunsen burner does not get hot. Opening the air hole on a Bunsen burner changes the flame from orange and sooty to a hotter, cleaner, blue flame.
2. Define this scientific word and use it in context. 'Bunsen burner'
A piece of laboratory equipment used to heat substances in scientific experiments. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.
3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.
Mistake: All the Bunsen is hot, flames are the same temperature. Correction: Ask pupils to explain why they are able to turn the collar without getting burnt. Explain why it is important to select the correct flame.
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