A química forense e a Cromatografia em papel: uma proposta de experimentação para o ensino de química

Abstract

Chemistry teaching in high school faces challenges related to students’ lack of motivation, the predominance of traditional teaching methods, and inequality in access to educational resources, especially in public schools. In this context, active learning methodologies and experimental activities using alternative materials emerge as effective strategies to promote meaningful and contextualized learning. This study aims to propose an experimental activity of Paper Chromatography (PC) with a Forensic Chemistry approach to contextualize Chemistry teaching in high school. The research has a qualitative and bibliographic nature, based on the analysis of scientific articles and academic studies addressing active methodologies, low-cost experimentation, and the use of Forensic Chemistry in education. The proposed experiment employs simple and accessible materials, such as filter paper, hydrographic pens, and 70% alcohol, allowing the practical exploration of fundamental chemical concepts, including polarity, solubility, mixture separation, and intermolecular interactions. The integration of Paper Chromatography with Forensic Chemistry encourages the development of students’ critical and investigative thinking by connecting classroom content with real-life and socially relevant situations. It is expected that this research contributes to the expansion of accessible, investigative, and contextualized experimental practices in Chemistry teaching at the high school level.