In Chemical Mystery #13, the contents of a "magic" cup were poured over a blue-colored cleaner. As a result, the color of the cleaner immediately changed from blue to white. In another case, the color change occurs when the magic cup is simply held over the cleaner. Finally, waving a "magic" hand over the cleaner also causes the blue-to-white color change. These magic tricks are actually modifications of some experiments I did a few years ago. These magic tricks are useful to perform for students when discussing several concepts related to acid-base chemistry. My students are usually fooled! You can check out how to do these tricks in the video below:
Let me know if you try out this experiment for your students. Happy experimenting!
Safety
General Safety
General Safety
For Laboratory Work: Please refer to the ACS Guidelines for Chemical Laboratory Safety in Secondary Schools (2016).
For Demonstrations: Please refer to the ACS Division of Chemical Education Safety Guidelines for Chemical Demonstrations.
Other Safety resources
RAMP: Recognize hazards; Assess the risks of hazards; Minimize the risks of hazards; Prepare for emergencies