Mai Lesson
Secret Color Science
Science · 30 min · Any age · You and your child together
Discover how everyday kitchen ingredients can reveal hidden properties through surprising color changes. This hands-on challenge explores the concepts of acids, bases, and indicators using a common spice and household liquids, turning your kitchen into a chemistry lab.
What your child gets out of it
- Predict how different substances will react when mixed
- Identify substances as acids or bases based on an indicator's color change
- Explain what a chemical indicator is and how it works
What you need
- Turmeric powder
- Lemon — You will need fresh lemon juice. (or Vinegar)
- Baking soda
- Water — Tap water is fine.
- Small clear cups — At least 3-5, for mixing and testing. (or Small clear bowls, Empty yogurt cups)
- Spoons or stirrers — At least 3-5, one for each cup to avoid cross-contamination. (or Chopsticks, Craft sticks)
- Measuring spoons — For precise measurements of baking soda and turmeric.
How it runs
- The Mystery of the Color Change · 5 min
- Explore & Plan · 8 min
- Discussion: What is an Indicator? · 6 min
- Activity: Test More Kitchen Liquids! · 9 min
- Summary: Your Kitchen Lab Discoveries! · 2 min
Why it matters
Chemical indicators are used in everything from swimming pool test kits to soil testing for gardening, helping us understand the environment around us.
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