Kitchen Chemistry: Identifying Chemical Changes

Crash Course Kids

This educational video from Crash Course Kids uses the relatable context of baking to explain the scientific concept of chemical changes. Host Sabrina Cruz introduces chemistry as the science of matter and how it changes, distinguishing between simple mixtures (like a fruit salad) that can be separated and chemical changes that create entirely new substances. The video defines a chemical change as the rearrangement of particles to form a new substance, a process that is typically irreversible. The content explores specific evidence that indicates a chemical change has occurred, using two primary examples: a burning match and a baking cake. Through these examples, students learn to identify key indicators such as color change, the release of smells, the production of light or gases, and the absorption or release of heat. The video specifically highlights how the holes in a sponge cake are evidence of carbon dioxide gas released during the baking process. This resource is highly valuable for elementary and middle school science classrooms as it bridges the gap between abstract chemical concepts and everyday experiences. It provides a clear, visual framework for students to distinguish between physical and chemical changes. Teachers can use this video to launch units on properties of matter, to support hands-on kitchen chemistry experiments, or as a visual aid to reinforce the indicators of chemical reactions.