Joseph Priestley – the discovery of gases (signed)
Description
While competing in a game show called ‘The greatest science investigator of all time’, Joseph Priestley describes his work. He explains how he discovered carbon dioxide (heavy air) and oxygen, and how he invented fizzy drinks and erasers.
Classroom Ideas
After viewing the clip, students could find out more about Joseph Priestley’s discovery of oxygen and carbon dioxide. What experiments did he conduct? After using a range of information sources for research, pupils could draw comic strips to illustrate Priestley’s investigations. They could also consider whether it was important that he did not have any science qualifications and reflect on the important qualities that he did have instead.
Alternatively, students could discuss the properties of oxygen and carbon dioxide as described in this clip. Challenge students to conduct a simple experiment to explore one of these properties; carbon dioxide can put out flames. Students could take one heaped teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda and put it into a class along with a level teaspoon of vinegar. This will generate carbon dioxide gas. Students should then gently pour the gas into another glass, being careful not to pour any of the liquid along with it. They can then pour the gas over a candle and flame should extinguish. Students could then reflect on the real-life application of this discovery and its impact on future society.
