thermodynamics

The conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) into adenosine diphosphate (ADP) is an extremely important energy source for living organisms. Under common physiological conditions, it can be expressed as:

Galinstan is the tradename for a liquid metal alloy that is comprised of three elements: gallium (68.5%), indium (21.5%), and tin (10%).¹ It behaves a lot like mercury but has significantly lower toxicity. Because of this, Galinstan is used as a replacement for mercury in a variety of applications.

Abstract: This post describes a simple device used to demonstrate and clarify some challenging concepts in thermodynamics at the General Chemistry level.

Co-Authored by Rhiannon Davids* and Dean J. Campbell* *Bradley University, Peoria, Illinois

An experiment that has always fascinated me is observing what happens when CO₂ is bubbled into limewater (which is a saturated solution of calcium hydroxide).^1-2 This experiment can be carried out by blowing bubbles of exhaled breath (which contains roughly 4% CO₂)³ through a straw into limewater.

In a classic demonstration of energy conservation, smashing two large steel ball bearings generates sufficient heat to burn a hole through a piece of paper.

Lightning exhibits some of the most fascinating phenomena on planet Earth.

Introduction: Did you know that sand can be converted into a mixture of gases that spontaneously ignites in air? The procedures involved are relatively simple to perform, spectacular to observe, and relate to a rich assortment of chemical principles.