1.
0 Title, Aims, and Objectives
Title: Investigating Exothermic and Endothermic Reactions
Aims and Objectives:
• To determine whether a chemical reaction is exothermic or endothermic by measuring
temperature changes.
• To observe how heat energy is absorbed or released during chemical reactions.
2.0 Theoretical Background Including a Hypothesis
2.1 Theoretical General Science
• Relevant Theory/Principles/Laws:
o Chemical reactions involve the breaking and forming of bonds, which can either
release or absorb heat.
o Exothermic reactions release heat, increasing the surrounding temperature.
o Endothermic reactions absorb heat, causing the surrounding temperature to
drop.
• Explanation of the Theory/Principle/Law:
o The law of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or
destroyed but can be transferred.
• Relevance to Research Aim:
o This experiment helps classify reactions based on energy transfer, supporting
the understanding of thermodynamics in chemistry.
2.2 Hypothesis
• If a reaction releases heat, it is exothermic, and the temperature will rise. If a
reaction absorbs heat, it is endothermic, and the temperature will decrease.
2.3 Research Question
• Design an experimental procedure that can be used to determine the nature of chemical
reactions (exothermic, endothermic reactions)
3.0 Methodology
3.1 Variables (Independent / Dependent / Control)
• Independent variable: Type of reaction (neutralization or dissolution).
• Dependent variable: Change in temperature.
• Control variables: Volume of solutions, initial temperature of reactants, concentration
of solutions.
3.2 Instruments or Materials (3 Marks)
• List of Materials:
o 2 beakers (100 mL)
o Measuring cylinder (50 mL)
o Thermometer
o Hydrochloric acid (1M)
o Sodium hydroxide solution (1M)
o Ammonium chloride (NH₄Cl)
o Water
o Stirring rod
o Stopwatch
• Appropriateness of Materials:
o The chosen materials allow accurate temperature measurement and safe
reaction handling.
• Justification:
o Beakers hold the reactants, thermometers measure temperature change, and
the stirring rod ensures proper mixing.
3.3 Procedure
Part A: Exothermic Reaction (Neutralization)
1. Measure 25 mL of hydrochloric acid (HCl) using a measuring cylinder and pour it into a
beaker.
2. Record the initial temperature of the acid using a thermometer.
3. Measure 25 mL of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and add it to the acid.
4. Stir the mixture gently and record the highest temperature reached.
5. Note whether the temperature increases (indicating an exothermic reaction).
Part B: Endothermic Reaction (Dissolution of Ammonium Chloride)
1. Measure 50 mL of water into a beaker and record its initial temperature.
2. Weigh about 5 g of ammonium chloride (NH₄Cl) and add it to the water.
3. Stir the mixture until the salt dissolves completely.
4. Record the lowest temperature reached.
5. Note whether the temperature decreases (indicating an endothermic reaction).
3.4 Precautions
• Awareness of danger/inconvenience:
o Hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide are corrosive.
o Ammonium chloride may cause irritation if inhaled.
• Safety Measures:
o Wear gloves and safety goggles.
o Handle chemicals carefully and wash hands after the experiment.
4.0 Data Presentation and Analysis
4.1 Results
Reaction Initial Temperature Final Temperature Temperature Change Reaction
Type (°C) (°C) (°C) Type
HCl + NaOH Exothermic
NH₄Cl + H₂O Endothermic
Conclusion:
• The neutralization of HCl and NaOH resulted in a temperature increase, confirming it is
exothermic.
• The dissolution of NH₄Cl in water caused a temperature drop, proving it is
endothermic.
