Question

Write like an 8th grader. A scientist is trying to determine if a reaction is endothermic or exothermic and measure how much energy is absorbed or given off. The scientist plans to perform the reaction in a vacuum chamber to control the experiment as much as possible and to prevent other variables from impacting the reaction. A vacuum chamber is an enclosed container with all air removed. Is this a valid approach? Why or why not? In three to five sentences, explain your reasoning.

Answer 1

Yes, using a vacuum chamber is a valid approach for this experiment. By removing all the air, the scientist can prevent outside factors, like changes in pressure or oxygen, from affecting the reaction. This helps keep the experiment controlled and focused only on the reaction itself. Measuring how much energy is absorbed or given off will be more accurate since there won’t be any interference from the surrounding environment. Overall, a vacuum chamber allows for better observation of whether the reaction is endothermic (absorbing energy) or exothermic (giving off energy).