COLORING SCIENCE: PURPLE SWEET POTATO (IPOMOEA BATATAS (L.) LAM.) AND ITS DIDACTIC USE IN CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY SUBJECTS IN HIGH SCHOOL

Abstract

This article sought to propose the use of purple sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) LAM.) in experimental activities applied to high school students in the subjects of Chemistry (natural pH indicator) and Biology (action of the enzyme catalase and detection of starch using 3% Lugol's iodine). The methodology employed used simple, everyday materials, with the aim of facilitating and instigating student learning. Regarding the results found, the use of purple sweet potato in the teaching of Chemistry can be an excellent alternative resource as a natural pH indicator, allowing the subject of inorganic functions to be worked on. In Biology, this tuber allows the discussion and importance of enzymes for living beings and the function of the enzyme catalase through the decomposition reaction of this enzyme by its substrate, Hydrogen Peroxide (hydrogen peroxide), releasing oxygen gas (bubbles), water and heat. The subject of carbohydrate structure and function can also be considered, with a positive reaction with iodine (navy blue color) in contact with purple sweet potato starch. In conclusion, the use of natural products, as proposed in this work, emerges as a valuable resource in the teaching of Chemistry and Biology, allowing to awaken and motivate students' learning, in addition to favoring the perspective of scientific experimentation.