Simulations for Teaching Chemical Equilibrium
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[1] University of the Witwatersrand
University of the Witwatersrand
City of Johannesburg, Sudáfrica
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[2] St. Mary''s School
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- Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 77, Nº 7 (July), 2000, págs. 920-920
- Idioma: inglés
- Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
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Resumen
This paper outlines a systematic approach to teaching chemical equilibrium using simulation experiments that address most known alternate conceptions in the topic. Graphs drawn using the data from the simulations are identical to those obtained using real experimental data for reactions that go to equilibrium. This allows easy mapping of the analogy to the target. The requirements for the simulations are simple and inexpensive, making them accessible to even the poorest schools. The simulations can be adapted for all levels, from pupils who are first encountering equilibrium through students in tertiary education to qualified teachers who have experienced difficulty in teaching the topic. The simulations were piloted on four very different audiences. Minor modifications were then made before the Equilibrium Games as reported in this paper were tested on three groups of subjects: a Grade 12 class, college students, and university Chemistry I students. Marked improvements in understanding of the concept were shown in two of the three sets of subjects.
