Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound made up of two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms. It is a pale blue liquid that is often used as a disinfectant or bleach, and it can be found in many household cleaning products.
One interesting experiment that can be done with hydrogen peroxide is the potato experiment. This experiment involves cutting a potato into thin slices and soaking them in a solution of hydrogen peroxide for a period of time.
To perform the experiment, you will need the following materials:
- A potato
- Hydrogen peroxide (3% concentration)
- A plastic container or bowl
- A knife or potato slicer
- A timer or clock
To begin, slice the potato into thin rounds using the knife or potato slicer. You can cut the slices as thin or as thick as you like, but thinner slices will likely react faster to the hydrogen peroxide solution.
Next, fill the plastic container or bowl with enough hydrogen peroxide to cover the potato slices. Carefully place the potato slices into the solution and set a timer for 10 minutes.
As the potato slices soak in the hydrogen peroxide, you will begin to notice some bubbling and foaming. This is due to the release of oxygen gas as the hydrogen peroxide decomposes. The oxygen gas is what causes the bubbling and foaming, as it becomes trapped in the potato slices.
After 10 minutes, remove the potato slices from the solution and place them on a plate or paper towel to dry. As the potato slices dry, the oxygen gas will escape, and the bubbling and foaming will stop.
You may notice that the potato slices have changed color after soaking in the hydrogen peroxide solution. This is due to the bleaching effect of the hydrogen peroxide, which can lighten the natural color of the potato slices.
Overall, the potato experiment is a simple and fun way to demonstrate the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide and the release of oxygen gas. It is a great way to introduce students to the concept of chemical reactions and the properties of hydrogen peroxide.
Argumentative topics are a common choice for college essays as they require students to critically analyze and evaluate an issue, and then take a stance on it. These topics can range from issues related to politics, social justice, and current events, to more personal topics such as relationships, mental health, and identity.
Some potential argumentative topics for college essays include:
Should college education be free for all students? This topic addresses the issue of the high cost of tuition and the debate over whether or not it is fair for taxpayers to subsidize the education of others.
Is censorship necessary in a free society? This topic delves into the balance between free speech and the need to protect society from harmful or offensive content.
Should the use of performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in professional sports? This topic addresses the ethical and health implications of athletes using drugs to improve their performance.
Is the death penalty an effective deterrent to crime? This topic explores the debate over capital punishment and whether or not it is a justifiable form of punishment.
Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be banned? This topic examines the potential risks and benefits of genetically modified foods and whether or not they should be allowed on the market.
Should abortion be legal? This topic addresses the controversial and emotionally charged issue of abortion and the rights of the fetus versus the rights of the woman.
Should the government regulate social media? This topic looks at the role of social media in society and whether or not it should be subject to government oversight and regulation.
Is the traditional nuclear family structure still relevant in modern society? This topic examines the changing nature of family structures and whether or not the nuclear family model is still the norm.
Should the government provide universal healthcare? This topic addresses the debate over whether or not healthcare is a basic human right and whether or not the government has a responsibility to provide it to all citizens.
Should the use of animal testing be banned? This topic looks at the ethical implications of using animals for scientific research and testing, and whether or not alternative methods should be used instead.
Overall, argumentative topics for college essays provide an opportunity for students to engage with complex issues and develop their critical thinking skills. By taking a stance on an issue and defending it with evidence, students can learn how to effectively communicate their ideas and persuade others to see things from their perspective.
