Explaining Product-Favored Reactions

• The oxidation of an apple is a product-favored reaction.Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images
  
  Product-favored reactions are so named because in most circumstances most of the reactants used are converted into products during the course of the reactions. These reactions require only a small "trigger" to create a reaction. For example, the action of an apple turning brown as it oxidizes is an example of a product-favored reaction because the apple requires the "trigger" of oxygen to initiate the reaction.
  
  

The Setup

• A large test tube is required to allow for ample dancing space for the Gummy Bears.Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  This experiment requires a large test tube secured over a Bunsen burner, long-handled tongs, potassium chlorate and a large bag of Gummy Bears. Once the test tube is secured over the Bunsen burner, one small scoop of potassium chlorate should be poured into the test tube. The Bunsen burner may then be turned on to allow for the potassium chlorate to melt completely.
  
  

The Experiment

• Using the long-handled tongs, place one Gummy Bear into the test tube. The reaction between the sugar, or sucrose, in the Gummy Bear, potassium chlorate, and oxygen will produce carbon dioxide, water, potassium chloride and a "dancing" Gummy Bear. The Gummy Bear will eventually seem to disappear, thus proving that this reaction is indeed, product-favored.
  
  

Class Participation

• Students will now be able to explain and understand a basic product-favored reaction.Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
  
  After demonstrating the experiment and proper safety precautions, encourage students to work in groups of two or more and allow them to create their own dancing Gummy Bear demonstration. Students should be able to explain how and why the basic reaction is taking place and log all observations in a complete lab report.