McGraw-Hill Science 2005

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Macmillan/McGraw-Hill Science Grade 5
Grade 5
e-Journal

Acids and Bases

Step 1. Questions

What are acids and bases? Scientists use many definitions of these terms. One useful definition involves pH, which is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. Acids have pH values less than 7. Bases have pH values greater than 7. Neutral solutions, as well as pure water, have a pH of 7 exactly.

For this e-Journal report, you will research different examples and uses of acids and bases. Here are questions to guide your research:
  • What are some examples of acids? What are their pH values? How are these substances used?
  • What are some examples of bases? What are their pH values? How are these substances used?
  • What is acid rain? What kind of harm does acid rain cause?
  • What are some acids and bases that the human body uses? Why are they important?
  • What questions do you have about acids and bases?
Are you ready? Begin by visiting the Web sites listed in Step 2. Write down what you learn in the note-taking boxes. You may also use search engines to research acids and bases, or visit the local library.

When you are ready, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your report.


Step 2. Research

Research answers for the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!

The Green Lane: Acid Rain
Get the facts on acid rain from this Web site, brought to you by the government of Canada. You can also click “Kid’s Corner” to learn about the pH scale.
Take Notes:



Water Properties: pH
This Web site is all about water, and this page explains why scientists measure the pH of streams, rivers and lakes. Be sure you look at the pH scale and the list of pH values for common liquids. This site is sponsored by the USGS, the United States Geological Survey.
Take Notes:



The pH Factor
From the Miami Museum of Science comes this Web site that’s all about acids, bases, and pH. Click “Excite” to learn some surprising facts about pH and taste. Or explore other areas of this fun Web site.
Take Notes:



Go to Step 3 or Save My Notes


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