Bunsen burners
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can light a Bunsen burner safely and control the temperature of the flame.
Key learning points
- The heavy base of a Bunsen burner does not get hot
- Opening the air hole on a Bunsen burner changes the flame from orange and sooty to a hotter, cleaner, blue flame.
- Adjusting the gas tap controls the size of the Bunsen burner flame.
- A splint used to light a Bunsen burner should be lit from the nearest Bunsen burner that is already lit.
- A lit splint should be carried with the flame angled slightly downwards and shielded by the other hand.
Keywords
Bunsen burner - A piece of laboratory equipment used to heat substances in scientific experiments.
Blue flame - 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.
Safety flame - 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.
Collar - A small metal piece that can be turned to change the flame from orange to blue; it does not get hot.
Splint - A thin, long piece of wood used to light Bunsen burners.
Common misconception
All the Bunsen is hot, flames are the same temperature.
Ask pupils to explain why they are able to turn the collar without getting burnt. Explain why it is important to select the correct flame.
Teacher tip
Demonstrate to the class by holding up Bunsen burner to show the collar turning. Pupils should work in groups of 2-3 and rotate responsibilities for turning the gas tap on and carrying the lit splint.
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Why is it important to follow safety instructions in a science laboratory?
Q2.What general precaution should be taken when working near an open flame?
Q3.Which tool is commonly used to create a controlled flame in a laboratory?
Q4.What is a common object used to light a flame in the laboratory?
Q5.Fill in the blank: Always the teacher if there is an unexpected situation during the experiment.
Q6.Fill in the blank: It's crucial to any open flame when not in use.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What part of the Bunsen burner remains cool even when it is lit?
Q2.What colour is the flame when the collar of a Bunsen burner is open?
Q3.Fill in the blank: A is used to light a Bunsen burner.
Q4.How should a lit splint be carried?
Q5.Arrange the following actions in the correct order when lighting a Bunsen burner.
Q6.Match each of the coloured flames to how open/closed the collar needs to be.
To help you plan your 7 science lesson on: Bunsen burners, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 science lesson on: Bunsen burners, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
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