Fluorescence Rocks! Exploring Glowing Sodalite

Syenite rocks containing sodalite that fluoresce yellow have been found on Lake Superior beaches in recent years and are of interest to collectors. The fluorescence of this mineral, which can be found in other localities, can be shown in classrooms and studied spectroscopically. Its structure can also be modeled with LEGO bricks, enabling further classroom connections.

The Summer Work Talk

As the summer is coming to an end - here is how one AP Teacher has his students navigate the start of AP chemistry.

Ion Chip Challenge: A Brain Break for Chemistry Classrooms

The Ion Chip Challenge is an interactive brain break game where students play rock-paper-scissors to exchange electron chips, helping them understand ion formation by addressing common misconceptions about positive and negative charges. This engaging activity combines movement and social interaction, making chemistry concepts more accessible and reinforcing that ions are formed through the transfer of electrons, not protons.

Chemistry Topics

acids/bases applications of chemistry aqueous solution chemistry Atomic Properties / Structure conductivity consumer chemistry Demonstrations density electrochemistry electrolysis equilibrium Food Science gases General Chemistry kinetics Laboratory Instruction liquids metals noncovalent interactions Outreach oxidation/reduction Oxidation / Reduction Phases / Phase Transitions / Diagrams Physical Chemistry physical properties Polymer Chemistry precipitation/solubility Public Understanding reactions solids stoichiometry thermodynamics