The students of IGY1 were not just learning abstract chemical equations, but actively observing how the principles behind those equations come to life in the lab. The sodium thiosulfate and nitric acid experiment was a brilliant way for IGY1 students to learn about the rate of reaction, stepping into the shoes of real scientists. When sodium thiosulfate reacts with an acid, it produces sulphur, which forms a yellow, cloudy solution. The experiment is simple: students mix sodium thiosulfate with acid and time how long it takes for the solution to become so cloudy that a marked “X” placed under the reaction flask disappears. This marks the end of the reaction.
This was a pivotal experience for many students, sparking a deeper interest in chemistry and the scientific method. Students left the lab with more than just data; they carried a new appreciation for the dynamic nature of chemical reactions and the skills to explore them further.
This experiment not only teaches students about chemical reactions but also helps them develop critical lab skills such as measuring, timing, and analyzing results. It’s a fun, hands-on way to bring chemistry to life and deepen their understanding of how reactions work in the real world.
