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CHEM INVESTIGATORY

The document outlines the preparation of a smoke-producing device using a chemical reaction between potassium nitrate and sugar, emphasizing the principles of combustion and oxidation-reduction reactions. It details the materials required, the procedure for creating the smoke bomb, and the chemical reaction involved, which produces smoke through incomplete combustion. Safety precautions are also highlighted to ensure a controlled and safe experimentation environment.

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yunusbohari532007
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5 views5 pages

CHEM INVESTIGATORY

The document outlines the preparation of a smoke-producing device using a chemical reaction between potassium nitrate and sugar, emphasizing the principles of combustion and oxidation-reduction reactions. It details the materials required, the procedure for creating the smoke bomb, and the chemical reaction involved, which produces smoke through incomplete combustion. Safety precautions are also highlighted to ensure a controlled and safe experimentation environment.

Uploaded by

yunusbohari532007
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Aim: - To prepare a simple smoke-producing device using a chemical reaction and

to study the principles behind the production of smoke.

Materials Required: - Potassium nitrate (KNO₃) — serves as the oxidizing


agent.
Sugar (C₆H₁₂O₆) — acts as the fuel.
Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) — can help stabilize the reaction and control the
rate.
Baking soda (Optional, for controlling the reaction speed).
A small container or mold (e.g., a small metal or plastic tube or a disposable
paper cup).
Heat source (e.g., a Bunsen burner or a small heating plate).

Theory: - The preparation of a smoke bomb involves understanding key chemical


concepts such as oxidation-reduction reactions (redox reactions), combustion, and
the formation of smoke.

1. Combustion:

Combustion is a chemical reaction in which a substance reacts with oxygen (O₂)


to produce energy in the form of heat and light.

In the smoke bomb, the fuel (sugar) combines with the oxygen (from potassium
nitrate) to undergo a combustion reaction, producing heat and smoke.
2. Oxidation-Reduction Reaction (Redox):

In the case of the smoke bomb, potassium nitrate (KNO₃) acts as the oxidizing
agent, meaning it provides the oxygen needed for combustion. On the other hand,
sugar (C₆H₁₂O₆) is the reducing agent. The sugar undergoes oxidation (loses
electrons) while the potassium nitrate is reduced (gains electrons).

3. Principle of Smoke Formation:

The primary principle behind the formation of smoke in this reaction is


incomplete combustion. In a typical combustion reaction, a fuel like sugar would
burn completely if there were an ample supply of oxygen. However, the reaction
in the smoke bomb takes place under controlled conditions where there is not
enough oxygen to fully combust all of the carbon in sugar. As a result, carbon
particles (soot) are formed and suspended in the air, creating the visible smoke.

C6H12O6+6O2→6CO2+6H2O + smoke

Procedure: -

1. Preparation of the Reaction Mixture: Weigh 60 grams of Potassium Nitrate


(KNO₃) and 40 grams of sugar (C₆H₁₂O₆). These proportions are commonly used
for smoke-producing mixtures.
2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a heat-resistant container, combine the potassium
nitrate and sugar thoroughly. The sugar will serve as the fuel, and potassium
nitrate acts as the oxidizing agent. Stir the mixture evenly to ensure there are no
lumps and that the chemicals are well-combined.

3. Heating the Mixture: Carefully heat the mixture in a controlled manner. As


the mixture heats up, the sugar begins to decompose, and the potassium nitrate
helps in the combustion process, releasing heat and producing smoke.

4. Forming the Smoke Bomb: Once the mixture is well-combined and slightly
melted, pour the substance into a mold or a small container and let it cool down
and solidify. If you’re using a paper cup, let the mixture harden inside it.
Allow the smoke bomb to cool completely. The resulting solid will be a smoke-
producing mixture.

5. Testing the Smoke Bomb: After the mixture has cooled and solidified, test it
outside in an open area. Place the smoke bomb in a safe location, light the top with
a match, and observe the smoke produced.
The combustion reaction of potassium nitrate and sugar will create a lot of smoke.

Chemical Reaction: - When the potassium nitrate and sugar react, the reaction is
generally as follows:

C6H12O6+6O2→6CO2+6H2O + smoke

The sugar (C₆H₁₂O₆) burns in the presence of oxygen (O₂) provided by the
potassium nitrate (KNO₃), producing carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and
smoke. The smoke is primarily made of tiny carbon particles and water vapor.
Observations: - The mixture should begin to smoke heavily once it is ignited.
The smoke will be visible in the form of white or grayish clouds, depending on the
concentration of ingredients.
Precautions: -

Safety First: Always wear safety goggles, gloves, and work in a well-ventilated
area or outdoors.
Fire Safety: Have a fire extinguisher or water available in case of accidents.
Handling Chemicals: Potassium nitrate and sugar should be handled carefully. Do
not ingest them, and avoid inhaling the smoke.
Controlled Environment: Make sure to perform this experiment under teacher
supervision in a controlled setting.
Avoid High Heat: Never use excessive heat when preparing the reaction, as it may
lead to uncontrolled combustion or explosion.

Bibliography: -
1. ChatGPT

2. Wikipedia

3. Google.com

4. Pexels

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