Context

Introduction

Redox reactions (reduction-oxidation) involve the transfer of electrons between molecules, atoms, or ions. They are fundamental to Chemistry - present in fuel combustion, our body's metabolism, and the production of electric energy, for example. Due to their wide applicability, it is essential to know how to balance them, adjusting the quantity of each substance to maintain the law of conservation of mass.

Balancing chemical equations is a fundamental skill for any Chemistry student. When we balance an equation, we ensure that it complies with the Law of Conservation of Mass, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed. In other words, the total number of each atom must be the same on both sides of the equation.

Balancing a Redox equation can be a bit more challenging than balancing a normal chemical equation because, in addition to ensuring that we have the same number of each type of atom on both sides of the equation, we must also ensure that the electric charge is balanced. However, this is a challenge that will lead to mastering a fundamental concept of Chemistry and an important reference for future studies in the field.

Context

Balancing redox equations is more than an academic action - it is a topic of great practical relevance. Several industrial processes, such as chlorine production from brine, aluminum production from bauxite, and sulfuric acid production, are examples of redox reactions in the industry.

Moreover, the redox reaction is the basis of life's existence. Cells produce energy for survival through redox reactions in the mitochondria, where oxygen is reduced to form water. Studying these redox reactions can help us better understand vital processes and the technology around us.

For this project, we recommend the following resources to deepen the study on the subject:

1. Explanatory video on redox balancing (Khan Academy)
2. Article on Oxidation-Reduction reactions (Brasil Escola)
3. Examples and exercises on balancing redox reactions (Mundo Educação)

Practical Activity

Activity Title: The Redox Equations Game

Project Objectives

1. Learn and apply the concept of balancing redox equations.
2. Promote teamwork and problem-solving.
3. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

Project Description

Each group must prepare and present a different real-world redox reaction to the rest of the class. For example, they can choose an industrial process involving a redox reaction or a biological process that occurs in living organisms.

Additionally, the groups must create a 'Redox Equations Game' for their classmates. This game should include questions and challenges that will test the opposing group's knowledge of redox equations and balancing. For example, challenges may include trivial questions about redox concepts, equations to balance, or even a chemical 'escape room' where the clues involved are related to redox reactions. Be creative when creating this game!

Required Materials

1. Textbooks and online resources for research.
2. Office supplies: paper, pens, cards to create the game.
3. Digital equipment (optional): for creating digital games or using simulations.

Project Step-by-Step

1. Divide into groups of 3 to 5 students.
2. Each group must choose a real-world redox reaction to research and present to their classmates.
3. With the selected reaction, the group should research the process, how it works, where it occurs, its importance, etc.
4. Next, the group will prepare a presentation of this reaction for the class. It should include the chemical equation, the half-reactions, a description of the process, and the importance of balancing in the reaction.
5. In parallel, the groups must create the 'Redox Equations Game.' This game should have at least 15 challenges/questions, all related to the topic of redox equations.
6. On the presentation date, each group will first present their reaction and then challenge an opposing group to play the game they created.
7. After the practical activity, students should write a detailed report on the project.

Project Deliverables

At the end of the project, the following must be delivered:

1. The presentation of the selected redox reaction, including the balanced equation and the process description.
2. The 'Redox Equations Game,' with rules and challenges/questions.
3. The report, which should include:
   • Introduction: The chosen reaction and its importance.
   • Development: Detailed explanation of the reaction, how it was balanced, the theory of redox equations applied, and the process of creating the game.
   • Conclusion: What the group learned from the research and game creation, the challenges encountered, and how they were overcome.
   • Bibliography: Sources consulted during the project.

The report should demonstrate not only the knowledge acquired in the practical part but also the theoretical concepts involved, the methodology used, and the application of theory in the real world. By observing the behavior of classmates during the game, groups can also reflect on the effectiveness of their questions and challenges, and how they could have done it differently.

This project aims to understand and apply the balancing of redox equations, but also expects the development of teamwork, time management, communication, and problem-solving skills.