The Chemical sunset demonstrates the Tyndall effect in a fun and engaging way. We have used this demonstration for both instructional and outreach purposes. Colloidal sulfur is produced by the reaction between sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid.
As the piece of metal skitters across the surface of the water in a beaker and — particularly in the case of potassium — it appears to catch fire, it is not obvious that the explanation for both phenomena lies in the production of hydrogen gas. There is a simple and safe way to demonstrate the reaction.
On its own, hydrogen peroxide slowly decomposes into oxygen and water. For this reason, fresh bottles of drugstore hydrogen peroxide, labeled 3%, are actually 6%. This is so the hydrogen peroxide remains above 3% at the expiration date, if stored properly.
The cover photograph of the November 2014 issue of Chem 13 News (pictured above) is more interesting than it might appear at first glance. (Consider this demonstration 1.)
Chemical reactions are the most exciting part of chemistry class. Over the past five years I have developed an experience-based chemical reactions unit that features instructional videos coupled with a small group laboratory experience, whole-class demonstrations, and an interactive “demo test” as a final assessment.
This photo capturing the acid-base reaction between ammonia and hydrochloric acid. Inside the bottle it is the vapours of the acid and the base that react...
Most everyone, young and old, enjoys consuming gummy bears. They are chewy, juicy and sugary sweet! And speaking of sugar, each and every gummy bear is packed full of energy. Just how much can be qualitatively demonstrated by “The Exploding Gummy Bear” as titled by Sonia, or more accurately by “The Rapid Oxidation of Sugar.”
An aluminum can is not just made of aluminum, but it is lined with a plastic film to prevent oxidation of the inside surface by any acid in the soft drink’s contents. In the experiment, by oxidizing the aluminum from the outside, the intact plastic lining can be seen.
Propane Bubbles continues to be one of our most popular demonstrations among audiences and presenters alike. Propane-filled soap bubbles are generated, released into the air, and then ignited.
The “Burning Steel Wool” demonstration is an engaging means to illustrate that increasing the amount of available oxygen increases the rate of combustion. A 9-volt battery is used to ignite a small piece of steel wool, first in air, and then in an oxygen-enriched environment.