Surabaya – Students of MI Masjid Nasional Al-Akbar Surabaya enthusiastically participated in a science-based learning activity titled “Self Heating Hot Pot” as part of the Little Scientist program. The activity was designed to introduce students to real-life applications of science, especially the concept of exothermic reactions. The session began with a simple yet engaging question: What can we do if we run out of gas and electricity? Can we still cook our food? Through collaboration and guided experimentation, students explored how chemistry can offer practical solutions to everyday challenges.
Students preparing ingredients for the Self Heating Hot Pot experiment.
Students prepared various ingredients such as noodles, eggs, cabbage, and mushrooms. They also arranged a heat-resistant container and a flameless heating bag containing calcium oxide, which plays a key role in the heating process.During the experiment, students learned that when calcium oxide reacts with water, it produces heat. This chemical process is known as an exothermic reaction, where energy is released in the form of heat.
Students carefully pouring water into the heating bag to initiate the exothermic reaction.
As water was added to the heating bag, the temperature increased significantly. The heat generated from the reaction was sufficient to cook the noodles inside the container without using fire, gas, or electricity. Teachers also emphasized safety precautions, explaining why the heating material should not be exposed directly to flames or consumed. One student confidently concluded, “When calcium oxide mixes with water, the temperature rises. The heat released from the reaction cooks the food safely.”
Students opening the Self Heating Hot Pot after the cooking process and observing the results.
Through this Little Scientist activity, students not only strengthened their understanding of scientific concepts but also developed teamwork, critical thinking, and communication skills. The experiment demonstrated that science is not only theoretical but also practical and relevant to daily life.
This innovative learning approach reflects the school’s commitment to providing engaging, meaningful, and experiential education for its students.