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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2006  > November  >
In the Classroom
JCE Classroom Activity
Whatever Floats (or Sinks) Your Can
Michael J. Sanger
Department of Chemistry, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN 37132
Cover
November 2006
Vol. 83 No. 11
p. 1632A

Abstract
In this activity, based on a popular chemical demonstration, groups of students test whether several cans of carbonated sodas will float or sink when placed in water. The purpose of this activity is to determine which property of the sodas (caffeine content, soda color, or sugar content) is responsible for whether the soda cans float or sink. This activity is intended to introduce students to the concept of density in an inquiry-based manner, and is also useful in teaching students the importance of controlling variables and making meaningful comparisons.
More Information
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Citation
Sanger, Michael J. J. Chem. Educ. 2006 83 1632A.
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Keywords
Consumer Chemistry; Elementary / Middle School Science; First-Year Undergraduate / General; High School / Introductory Chemistry; Inquiry-Based / Discovery Learning; Laboratory Instruction; Nonmajor Courses; Physical Properties
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History
Created:
Last Updated:
9/19/2006
9/20/2006
 Caution! 
Experiments, laboratory exercises, lecture demonstrations, and other descriptions of the use of chemicals, apparatus, instruments, computers, and computer interfaces are presented in the Journal of Chemical Education as illustrative of new or improved ideas or concepts in chemistry instruction and are directed at qualified teachers. Although every effort is made to assure and encourage safe practices and safe use of chemicals, the Journal of Chemical Education cannot assume responsibility for uses made of its published materials. Many chemicals are hazardous. Precautions for the safe use of hazardous chemicals and directions for their proper disposal are described in the Material Safety Data Sheets and on the labels. We strongly urge all those planning to use materials from our pages to make choices and to develop procedures for laboratory and classroom safety in accordance with local needs and situations.
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