Foundations of Atomic Structure - Democritus and Dalton

Select one of the Warm-Up options shown below. Following the procedures provided, complete one of the two activities, observing what happens and considering the questions provided. These difficult questions are similar to those debated by the early Greeks.

Option 1: How Far Can a Substance Be Divided?

Equipment and Materials

• One piece of paper
• One pair of scissors

Procedure

1. With the scissors, cut the piece of paper in half.
2. Once the paper is divided into two pieces, select one piece and cut it in half again.
3. Carefully, continue to cut of the paper halves in half.

 

Option 2: Can a Substance Disappear?

Equipment and Materials

• One cup of water
• A spoon
• One teaspoon of sugar

Procedure

1. Observe the spoonful of sugar.
2. Add the sugar to the cup of water and stir with the spoon for thirty seconds.