This past week, in my Sophomore Honors Chemistry class, taught by Mr. Kreuzberger, we have completed two amazing experiments in class regarding reactions and how different molecules behave. 

The first experiment was a hydrogen balloon experiment, where students were paired into groups, given a flask, and instructed to pour acid into it very carefully. Then, each group took pieces of aluminum, cut them in tiny pieces, and placed them inside a balloon. Proceeding with caution, one student from each group gripped the balloon around the mouth of the flask, pouring the aluminum pieces into the flask, mixing with the acid inside. This combination created air pressure, which inflated the balloon until it was roughly half-full. For the grand finale, Mr. Kreuzberger held a lighter next to the balloon,culminating in a loud explosion and a ball of fire erupting.

Our second experiment was using a flint and steel to light a fire. Again, students were split up into groups, at which point all students were ordered to find kindling for the fire. Students abraded the metal with all their might, though we were ultimately unsuccessful in our attempts.  

The goal of both experiments was to better understand chemical reactions, energy transfer, and how different materials respond under different conditions. A special thanks to Mr. Kreuzberger for teaching us so much and being so helpful during these experiments!