Corrosion as an exothermic reaction

Name:
Background: Corrosion of iron and steel is generally a slow reaction as iron (III) oxide (rust)
forms a layer that protects the metal below. Rusting only affects the deeper layers of metal
when the surface layer of rust flakes off. Acetic acid can speed up this rate of reaction by
stripping away layers of iron (III) oxide and exposing the metal below. As a result, corrosion
occurs continuously.
Having been provided with the background knowledge above, Carry OShin has decided to
conduct an investigation on corrosion as an exothermic reaction. She has devised the
following aim, hypothesis and method. The following materials are available within the
investigation:

Steel wool
Acetic acid (vinegar)
Rubber gloves

2 x 500mL beakers
Tongs
Thermometre

Directions:
Carry OShin has made several errors in the way in which she has designed her experiment
and formed a hypothesis. Your task is to rewrite Carrys aim, hypothesis and method,
forming a suitable aim, hypothesis and planning safe procedures.
Aim: To demonstrate that when a reaction is exothermic, iron oxide must be one of the
reactants.
Hypothesis: A reaction will occur in the experiment.
Method:
1. Put steel wool in a beaker.
2. Soak the steel wool in vinegar for between 1 and 10 minutes
3. Remove the steel wool from the vinegar using your hands. If you dont want to use
your hands, ask another group member to remove the steel wool. Place the steel
wool in an unused beaker
4. Touch the steel wool and write in a results table down whether the steel wool feels
hot or cold
5. Measure the temperate of the wool by writing down whether it is hotter or colder
every minute until the temperature stops changing
6. Once the reaction has stopped changing, look closely at the steel wool and record
your observations on some scrap paper
7. Return to your seats to complete the experimental write up as someone else will
surely clean up your investigation

Aim:

Hypothesis:

Method: