What Are the Physical and Chemical Changes in the Iron and Sulfur Experiment?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the Iron and Sulfur experiment aimed at distinguishing between physical and chemical changes in substances. The procedure involves mixing iron and sulfur, separating the mixture, and applying hydrochloric acid (HCl) to observe reactions. Key conclusions indicate that the initial mixing is a physical change, while heating the mixture and the subsequent reaction with HCl results in chemical changes, forming iron sulfide as a compound. Participants clarify that iron and sulfur are elements, the initial mixture is a physical mixture, and the product of heating is a compound.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of physical and chemical changes in matter
  • Basic knowledge of elements, compounds, and mixtures
  • Familiarity with laboratory procedures involving hydrochloric acid (HCl)
  • Experience with observational techniques in scientific experiments
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of elements and compounds in chemistry
  • Learn about the process of chemical reactions and their classifications
  • Explore laboratory safety protocols when handling acids like HCl
  • Investigate the formation and properties of iron sulfide as a compound
USEFUL FOR

Students in chemistry courses, educators teaching laboratory techniques, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of physical and chemical changes in experiments.

jennifer.
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Hi! I'm having trouble answering some questions on a lab I did in class. Any help at all would be greatly appreciated!

The purpose of the experiemt was to test the differences between pure substances (elements, compounds) and mixtures.
If the procedure would help, here it is:
1. Mix equal amounts of iron and sulfur and a piece of paper. Examine the mixture and record observations.
2. Separate the mixture into two parts.
3. Put one of these two parts into a test tube and add 4-5 drops of HCl.
4. Place the second portion in a dish and heat it for approximately 4-5 minutes.
5. Once cooled down, take a sample from the dish and add a few drops of HCl. Record observations.

The questions that I have to answer are: Which of the changes that took place in this experiment are physical and which are chemical? Why? Which of the substances were elements, which were part of a mixture, and which formed a compound?

Thank you SO much for any help! :)
 
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can anyone help me? :confused:
 

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