Quantum Levitation and Superconductors
Tom Kuntzleman | Thu, 06/03/2021 - 13:21
Some explorations and explanations regarding superconductors and the quantum levitation (also known as quantum locking) experiment.
phase changes
Density of an Ice Core Activity
Thomas Cox | Wed, 11/18/2020 - 20:10
The concept of density is investigated regularly- in lecture, lab, or both- in Introductory (non-science majors) or the majors General Chemistry 1 courses. This post describes a short activity involving ice core density.
Introducing Density - A Free Virtual Chemistry Lab Activity
Josh Kenney | Wed, 09/16/2020 - 11:24
The author explains a virtual chemistry lab activity for use in a high school chemistry class. This activity is an excellent way to introduce measurements, significant figures, and the concept of density.
Color Changing Coke and Mentos
Tom Kuntzleman | Wed, 09/02/2020 - 03:07
What's a better way to start the new school year than with some new experiments? Learn how to use a variety of color changing experiments to teach students about the Diet Coke and Mentos experiment, acids, bases, chemical and physical changes, and climate change.
The Chemical Laser Show
Tom Kuntzleman | Sat, 12/07/2019 - 20:06
Chemistry and lasers can be used to create a demonstration that includes several colors and flashing lights. This demonstration connects to topics in quantum chemistry and phase changes.
The Liquid Nitrogen Cloud
Tom Kuntzleman | Fri, 07/26/2019 - 10:42
Have you ever seen the liquid nitrogen cloud? Do you wonder how the cloud forms when hot water is thrown onto liquid nitrogen? This post explores the liquid nitrogen cloud and possible explanations for its formation.
Are Diamonds Forever? A Chemical Investigation
Tom Kuntzleman | Fri, 11/02/2018 - 14:04
You are likely aware that diamonds are converted - albeit slowly - to graphite under normal conditions. Thus, diamonds don't last forever, in contrast to the popular advertising slogan. However, did you know that you can use chemistry to prove that diamonds are not forever? It's simpler than you think...
Solution to Chemical Mystery #11: Too Hot to Boil?
Tom Kuntzleman | Tue, 03/06/2018 - 09:26
The solution to Chemical Mystery #11, which involves the Leidenfrost Effect, is presented.
Temperature Experiments with the Scrub Daddy Sponge
Tom Kuntzleman | Wed, 02/21/2018 - 10:59
What happens if you cool a Scrub Daddy sponge in liquid nitrogen (or dry ice) and subsequently strike it with a hammer? Let's find out!
Break the Ice with Mystery Blocks
Stephanie O'Brien | Thu, 02/15/2018 - 20:00
In an effort to align my lessons with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), I have tried to take the content I have traditionally taught, and shift the design to focus on student engagement with the science and engineering practices outlined in the standards. For the topic of heat transfer I re-packaged the ice melting blocks discrepant event as a NGSS investigative phenomena.