Best Extended Essay Examples in Chemistry for Students
The Extended Essay is a major component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program and provides students with an opportunity to explore a subject in depth. A well-chosen topic and clear research focus are essential for writing a successful extended essay in chemistry. Here are some examples and ideas to inspire your own project.
1. Investigating the Effect of Temperature on the Rate of Reaction: One of the most common topics for a chemistry extended essay is the effect of temperature on the rate of reaction. For example, you could investigate how the temperature of a solution affects the reaction rate between hydrochloric acid and sodium thiosulphate. This experiment can provide valuable insights into chemical kinetics and the factors that influence reaction speed.
2. The Impact of pH on Enzyme Activity: Another interesting area of study involves exploring the effect of pH on the activity of enzymes. For instance, you could research how changes in pH affect the reaction rate of the enzyme catalase in breaking down hydrogen peroxide. This experiment could help you understand the role of enzymes in biological systems and how their activity can be optimized.
3. Analyzing the Composition of Household Cleaning Products: A chemistry extended essay could also focus on analyzing the chemical composition of household cleaning products. For example, you could compare the effectiveness of different cleaning agents in removing common stains or contaminants, such as grease or mold. This practical research topic combines chemistry with real-world applications.
4. Investigating the Environmental Impact of Heavy Metals: Heavy metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium pose significant risks to the environment. An extended essay could involve researching how different heavy metals interact with water sources and how they affect aquatic life. This topic not only provides an opportunity for scientific research but also raises awareness about environmental issues.
5. The Chemistry of Food Preservation: Exploring the chemistry behind food preservation methods, such as canning, freezing, or fermentation, could make for an interesting extended essay. You could investigate how different preservatives affect the shelf life of food and examine the chemical processes that take place during preservation.
When selecting your extended essay topic, make sure to choose a subject that interests you and is manageable within the scope of your research. Additionally, ensure that your research question is specific and researchable, with a clear methodology that allows for meaningful conclusions.
In conclusion, chemistry offers a wide range of topics for extended essays, from chemical reactions to environmental issues. By selecting a relevant and intriguing research question, you’ll be able to write a successful extended essay that not only demonstrates your understanding of chemistry but also contributes to the field.
