A piece of laboratory equipment used to heat substances in scientific experiments.

A hot flame used for heating, produced when the collar is open to allow more air/oxygen in. It is dangerous because it can be difficult to see.

An orange flame produced when the collar is closed, allowing less air/oxygen in. It is cooler than a blue flame and easier to see, making it safer.

A small metal piece that can be turned to change the flame from orange to blue; it does not get hot.

A thin, long piece of wood used to light Bunsen burners.

Bunsen burners

Science

In the Solutions unit, pupils will build on their understanding of the states of matter to learn about mixtures, solutions, and dissolving in terms of the particle model.

In Y4 of primary science, pupils learnt about ‘solids, liquids and gases’ and changes of state.

This unit covers the properties of solids, liquids, and gases using the particle model, including gas pressure. It explains changes of state in terms of the particle model while developing skills in using appropriate techniques, apparatus, and materials in lab work.

Solid, liquid, gas states and changes of state

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

What part of the Bunsen burner remains cool even when it is lit?

What colour is the flame when the collar of a Bunsen burner is open?

Fill in the blank: A {{}} is used to light a Bunsen burner.

Flame pointing downwards a little and shielded with the other hand

It should never be carried around the lab

Check the collar is in the closed position and the gas tap is off.

Use the nearest lit Bunsen burner to light the end of a splint. 

Walk to your unlit Bunsen burner at a safe speed.

Place your splint near the chimney. Your Bunsen should light an orange flame

Turn the collar to open the air hole to get a blue flame.

Arrange the following actions in the correct order when lighting a Bunsen burner.

Match each of the coloured flames to how open/closed the collar needs to be.

Why is it important to follow safety instructions in a science laboratory?

What general precaution should be taken when working near an open flame?

Which tool is commonly used to create a controlled flame in a laboratory?

What is a common object used to light a flame in the laboratory?

Fill in the blank: Always {{}} the teacher if there is an unexpected situation during the experiment.

Fill in the blank: It's crucial to {{}} any open flame when not in use.

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Bunsen burners

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.