Year 5 experienced an explosive demonstration of changing states of matter this week! We explored the surprising chemical reaction between humble bicarbonate of soda (a solid) and different types of vinegar (a liquid). The class learned that mixing them instantly produces a brand new substance—a gas, carbon dioxide. We observed the dramatic fizzing and foaming as the gas rapidly escaped, demonstrating a solid and liquid reacting to form a gas.

We then investigated how changing the type of vinegar (like white, malt, or apple cider) affected the reaction rate and fizz intensity. This hands-on investigation was a foamy, fun, and memorable way to see the three states of matter—solid, liquid, and gas—in dynamic action!