Public Understanding

DIY Vapor Catalyzed Chemiluminescence

Tom Kuntzleman | Tue, 07/11/2017 - 11:33

I recently watched a video in which a chemist (who goes by the nickname “NurdRage”) activated a chemiluminescent reaction by vapor deposition. I wanted to try it out for myself! Unfortunately, oxalyl chloride is toxic, corrosive, and a lachrymator. Thus, the experiment conducted by NurdRage needs to be conducted in a hood, and it is not particularly amenable to simple presentations. I began to wonder how I could create this vapor activated chemiluminescence using simple materials.

Solution to Chemical Mystery #10: Out of the Blue!

Tom Kuntzleman | Wed, 07/05/2017 - 09:30

In Chemical Mystery #10, plastic straws are observed to “magically” change color when waved in the air. Check out the explanation and the video.

Exploring the Diet Coke and Mentos Experiment

Tom Kuntzleman | Tue, 05/09/2017 - 07:39

I think this experiment provides a fantastic vehicle to involve students of all ages in small, hands-on and exploratory research projects. Like many others, my students and I have investigated various aspects of this interesting fountain.

Chemical Connections to Climate Change

Tom Kuntzleman | Wed, 01/25/2017 - 11:11

It is becoming increasingly important for citizens to understand various concepts related to climate change and global warming. This post describes several chemical concepts that are pertinent to these issues, in the hopes that teachers of science and chemistry can introduce the topic of climate change into their classrooms and everyday discussions.

Solution to Chemical Mystery #9: Liquid Nitrogen vs. Dry Ice

Tom Kuntzleman | Mon, 01/16/2017 - 09:21

The solution to Chemical Mystery #9: Liquid Nitrogen vs. Dry Ice is presented. Why does liquid nitrogen launch the bucket so much higher than dry ice and water?

Chemical Mystery #9: Liquid Nitrogen vs. Dry Ice

Tom Kuntzleman | Thu, 01/12/2017 - 07:20

A 2L soda pop bottle is filled about one-third full with either liquid nitrogen or solid carbon dioxide (dry ice) and water. The bottle is sealed and a plastic bucket is placed on top. Do you think the liquid nitrogen or dry ice and water will make the bucket go higher? Can you explain the results using chemistry?