Name:________________________ Per. __ Date:____ Integrated Science Honors 8
Atmospheric Oxygen Webquest
Introduction: Chemical reactions are all around us, and many of them happen
because of the high reactivity of the oxygen present in our atmosphere. Reactions such
as corrosion, combustion, photosynthesis, and respiration would be impossible without
the Oxygen that makes up 20% of our atmosphere. In this webquest, you will watch a
series of videos to help you learn about the vital role oxygen plays in all these reactions.
Part 1: Combustion
The first set of reaction Oxygen is involved in is Combustion reactions. Generally
combustion reactions involve Oxygen reacting with a hydrocarbon to form Carbon
dioxide and water. A common example is burning wood. To find out more about
combustion reactions, open this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEjEqnMBdEM
1. What things are required for combustion to occur?
2. What is the effect of limited oxygen on combustion?
Part 2: Corrosion
Another set of chemical reactions involves corrosion. The common use of the word is
that metals react with water and oxygen to form new substances. A common example
is rust. To find out more about corrosion open this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oqW2VgSayM
1. What things contribute to corrosion?
2. Why doesn’t Aluminum corrode?
3. What happens when then iron nail is attached to zinc?
4. Why do builders use galvanized metals?
Part 3: Photosynthesis and cellular respiration
The last set of reactions is particularly important for life on this planet. All living things
need energy in the form of ATP to run all the cellular process that keep them alive. Most
living things need oxygen in order to make ATP. To find out more about Photosynthesis
and cellular respiration, open this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XIyweZg6Sw
1. What components are present in both reactions?
2. What do both reactions need in order to happen at room temperature?
3. Compare how plants and animals ensure all cells get oxygen and carbohydrates
in order to perform respiration.
4. What is the difference between cellular respiration and combustion?
Conclusion:
What is the importance of Atmospheric oxygen in chemical reactions?