Your students will discover how CO₂ fire extinguishers work with this interesting investigation.

A simple experiment that involves adding bi-carb soda and vinegar to a dish containing a candle will produce carbon dioxide and extinguish the flame. An instructions page is included which has two copies on each page and can be cut in half after printing.

The supporting worksheets allow students to use their inquiry skills and ask thought-provoking questions. The evaluation includes identifying whether the investigation showed a reversible or irreversible change, how the knowledge gained could be used when fighting fires and how CO₂ fire extinguishers were invented by building on the work of others. This activity addresses all three strands of the Science Australian Curriculum. Helpful answer sheets are provided that explain the science.

This resource is part of our Chemical Sciences Year 6 UNIT PLAN and is ideal to use alongside the All About Burning POWERPOINT.