Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

For my project I tried to figure out what affected the Briggs-Rauscher reaction. I did this by varying the amount of Malonic Acid, Sodium iodate, and Sulfamic acid. I also varied the temperarure (22 C and 0 C). In the end I figured out that varying the amount of the components caused the duration of the reaction to be shortened and the entire reaction to take on a lighter tone. When I tested outside (when it was freezing point) I found that the duration of the reaction was much longer outside than inside. I would like to know why these things occured. Please tell me the details why this occured, as well as websites where I can learn more.

Thanks for your help.

The title of this project on this website is "Minds of Their Own: A Chemical Reaction that Changes, then Changes Back!"

Hi andj8a6s -

Varying the chemical components would shorten the reaction time if the amount of one of the components was reduced. The reason being that less of one of the components is now available to sustain the reaction.

Regarding the temperature, chemical reactions tend to occur slower the colder the environment. An example of this is a refrigerator. Foods that "spoil" do so because of a chemical reaction. Putting them in a refrigerator slows down these "spoiling" reactions thus allowing the food to remain fresh significantly longer. A website to better describe this is: http://www.chemguide.co.uk/physical/bas ... ature.html.

I hope this helps. Good luck with your project.

Thank you!