Lesson 1
Topic of laboratory work: The reaction of aluminum with bases
The purpose of the work:
Study the reaction of aluminum with sodium hydroxide
Learning outcomes:
Students can write the reaction of aluminum with alkalis
Students can dissolve aluminum in alkali solutions
Teacher’s guide:
Tasks are performed in groups of 2-3 people
Worksheet:
Safety technique:
Description
Introduction:
Today, we’re going to explore the fascinating world of chemical reactions by taking a closer look at what happens when aluminum reacts with strong bases and acids. We’ll use two common chemicals as examples: sodium hydroxide (a strong base) and hydrochloric acid (a strong acid). The difference in reactions of aluminum with acids and bases lies in its amphoteric properties. Hence aluminum and its oxide and hydroxide may behave in dual mode.

Reaction with Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)
Chemical Equation: 2Al(s) + 2NaOH(aq) → 2NaAlO2(aq) + H2(g)

Reaction with Hydrochloric Acid (HCl)
Chemical Equation: 2Al(s) + 6HCl(aq) → 2AlCl3(aq) + 3H2(g)

Conclusion:
In summary, when aluminum comes into contact with strong bases like sodium hydroxide or strong acids like hydrochloric acid, exciting chemical reactions occur. These reactions release hydrogen gas and produce different compounds, sodium aluminate with sodium hydroxide, and aluminum chloride with hydrochloric acid.
List of necessary equipment
- Foil
- Sodium hydroxide
- Water
- Glass tumbler
Practical part
1) Dissolve 2 grams of sodium hydroxide in 50 ml of water.

2) Gently stir the solution until the sodium hydroxide is completely dissolved

3) Throw a couple of pieces of foil into the solution and observe the result

Conclusion
Thus, you have learned how to react aluminum with a strong alkali. This reaction has important industrial applications because it dissolves aluminum.
Rules for designing the laboratory work
The laboratory work should contain items in the following order:
- Laboratory work number
- Topic name
- Purpose of the work
- Hypothesis
- Brief description of the theoretical part
- Equipment
- Steps in the correct sequence
- Add a photo from the experiment (if you can’t insert a photo, you can add a picture)
- Give a brief description
- Write a brief discussion and explanation of the topic covered
- Write the conclusion of the work
- The workplace must be cleaned and put in order
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