ACTIVITY: Is It In There?

This lesson emphasizes the connection between the chemical elements created in dying stars and the world around us today. Looking at a variety of everyday objects, you’ll guess whether certain elements are found in these objects.

If you want to get a real sense of the connection between our daily lives and dying stars, you don’t need to look very far. Chemical elements formed in the dramatic explosions of dying stars are essential to products and systems we use every day. In this brief activity, you will try to determine which chemical elements are found in the following: a cell phone, a car, the Golden Gate Bridge, and a blueberry muffin.

Complete the Is It in There? worksheet to the best of your ability. Don’t spend more than 5 to 10 minutes on this. Once you are done, compare your answers to those on the answer key, and see how you did!

What surprised you the most as something that is “in there”? Share your surprise in the Questions Area below.