Contextualization

When we start studying chemistry, some topics may seem confusing or even uninteresting at first glance. However, if we pay attention and understand their practical application, everything becomes easier and more fun to learn. One of these topics is the nomenclature of oxides.

Oxides are simple substances that contain oxygen and another element. They are quite common in our daily lives and appear in various situations, from the rust that forms when a metal is exposed to air for a long time, to important industrial processes such as steel or glass production.

Introduction

The nomenclature of oxides is an essential tool that allows scientists and students from all over the world to communicate effectively and efficiently about these substances. With it, we can identify oxides and their properties based solely on their name.

Oxides are classified into two main categories - basic and acidic. Basic oxides, also called metallic oxides, react with water to form bases while acidic oxides, or non-metallic oxides, react with water to form acids.

The nomenclature of these oxides is based on the rules established by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), and it is important for chemists because it provides a systematic and universal way of naming chemical compounds. This facilitates scientific communication and avoids misunderstandings.

In the modern world, understanding chemistry is fundamental, and knowledge about oxides and their nomenclature has practical applications in many areas, from scientific research to industry. It is in the laboratory that new technologies are developed, and for this, a complete understanding of the nomenclature of oxides is crucial.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: Mastering Oxides: Learning to Name Them and Understanding Their Properties

Project Objective:

Develop technical and socio-emotional skills to deal with the nomenclature of oxides, understand their properties, and empower oneself to discuss their relevance in various contexts such as science, industry, daily life, and environmental issues.

Detailed Project Description:

Students, divided into groups of 3 to 5, will conduct comprehensive research on different oxides, investigate their properties, uses, and the proper nomenclature for each one. The groups should also look for events or phenomena in the real world where these oxides are relevant, capturing images of these events or phenomena, if possible. The project will last one week.

Materials Needed:

Internet access for research, a camera (can be a cellphone camera) to capture images of oxides in the real world, paper and pen for notes, and a text processing software for the preparation of the final report.

Step-by-Step Guide for the Activity:

1. Gather your group and divide tasks among members.

2. Conduct research to find information about acidic and basic oxides. Each group member should choose at least one type of acidic oxide and one type of basic oxide to study.

3. Gather information about the characteristics of these oxides, such as their correct nomenclature, physical and chemical properties, common uses, and the reaction they form with water. Record all this information.

4. Look for events or phenomena in the real world where the oxides you studied are relevant. Capture images of these events or phenomena, if possible.

5. Gather all the collected information and discuss with the group. Organize the information to create a clear and cohesive presentation.

6. Each group member should participate in the preparation of the final report, which should follow the following structure:

   • Introduction: Relevance and real-world application of oxide nomenclature and the project's objective.

   • Development: Theory on oxide nomenclature, activity details, methodology used, presentation and discussion of results obtained.

   • Conclusion: Return to main points, lessons learned, and conclusions about the project.

   • Bibliography: Sources used to work on the project such as books, web pages, videos, etc.

Project Submission:

The activity will be completed with the submission of the report, which, in addition to documenting the work done and the results obtained, will serve to evaluate teamwork, students' ability to manage time, problem-solving, creative thinking, and proactivity. The report should be clear, well-structured, and concise, reflecting the equitable division of work and collaboration among group members.

The project will also be evaluated based on students' ability to correctly name the oxides, identify their properties, and discuss their relevance in various contexts.