Die, Phlogiston Theory! Die!

Aim To disprove the phlogiston theory by demonstrating that burning objects can gain weight instead of losing it. Equipment Heat-proof mat Crucible Electronic balance Matches Steel wool Procedure Loss of Mass support for theory 1. Put 5 matches in the crucible and measure the combined mass of matches and crucible on the electronic balance 2. Place the crucible (and matches) on the heat-proof mat 3. Light the matches and let them burn completely. 4. Ensure that the crucible is cool and re-measure the mass. 5. Clean out the crucible Gain of mass evidence against theory 6. Place the steel wool in the crucible and measure the combined mass of wool and crucible 7. Place the crucible on the heat-proof mat and light the steel wool with a match. Do not let any pieces from the match fall into the crucible. 8. When burning is complete, allow the crucible to cool and re-measure its mass. Results Burning matches Final mass of crucible and matches = _________ Initial mass of crucible and matches = _________ Gain or loss of mass Burning steel wool Final mass of crucible and steel wool Initial mass of crucible and steel wool Gain or loss of mass = _________

= _________ = _________ = _________

Discussion Why did experiments such as this result in the discrediting of the Phlogiston theory?