Acid Rain in a Bag - Demonstration Kit

Perform a safe, microscale simulation of acid rain formation in a plastic bag. Chemicals react to form a visible brown cloud of nitrogen dioxide which, in turn, acidifies water present in the system. An acid–base indicator shows the speed and degree to which the pH is altered. The results are direct and unmistakable—and it all takes place within a bag on an overhead projector! The procedure is also easily adaptable as a classroom activity.

Concepts: Environmental chemistry, acid–base indicators.
Time Required: 15 minutes
Materials Provided: Zipper-lock bag, 12-well reaction plate, copper wire, nitric acid solution, and universal indicator solution.
Note: Perform this demonstration in a fume hood or well-ventilated lab.