Suitable For
Grade 4
Difficulty
2
Time Required
<12 Hours
Supervision
Advised
What’s it about?
When unpolished marble is found in the rough, most people will confuse it with just any other metamorphic rock. Geologists often make use of various lab tests to test for the presence of specific substances in rocks. Similarly, in this science experiment we will use vinegar to test for the presence marble:
Topics covered
Metamorphic rock, Calcium carbonate
What will I need?
- 3x GLASS JARS
- VINEGAR
- MARBLE GRAVEL
- PIECES OF SLATE
- PIECES OF LIMESTONE
- MAGIC MARKER
- CARDBOARD
Procedure (Method)
Unfortunately, this section is only available in the e-book version of the project.
How does it work?
Unfortunately, this section is only available in the e-book version of the project.
This science experiment works because vinegar reacts with a substance found in both marble and limestone, called ‘calcium carbonate’, and this reaction releases ‘carbon dioxide’ gas. The shells of living organisms also consist mainly of ‘calcium carbonate’ and an acid such as vinegar has a weakening effect on it. The vinegar actually ‘dissolves’ the ‘calcium carbonate’ and with enough fresh vinegar, both the marble and limestone would eventually be eaten away. Slate does not contain any ‘calcium carbonate’ and the vinegar does not react with it.
Like the sound of it?
Why not check out the full worksheet in one of our popular e-books?
This particular science project can be found in any of the following Experiland e-books:
Experiland e-books contain detailed steps, including illustrations, to complete the science projects from start to finish.
