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.
Video demonstration
Demonstration: Reaction of Magnesium and Silver Nitrate
Kaleb Underwood | Tue, 05/02/2017 - 08:55
I found a version of this demonstration online a couple of years ago. I admit, when I first tried it with my class it was mostly for a crowd pleaser to demonstrate the activity series of metals, but I then became very intrigued by the processes occurring. The original source only referenced the “single replacement reaction” between Mg(s) and AgNO3(aq). Therefore, when I saw a grayish product (silver) I was not surprised. However, I was surprised by the white flash and the production of a white product, which were reminiscent of the classic combustion of magnesium demonstration. This led to some research and my conclusions that follow. Read through to the end and you will find a video of the demo.
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?
The Dry-Ice-in-Water Cloud
Tom Kuntzleman | Sun, 12/04/2016 - 18:54
Have you ever wondered where the cloud comes from when dry ice is placed in water? If you think the answer is “atmospheric water vapor”, be sure to read this post because experimental evidence suggests that this explanation is wrong.
Storm troopers ain't got nothing on this chemist
Tom Kuntzleman | Wed, 08/05/2015 - 08:24
Build a propane gun for your students! Construction is inexpensive, easy, and the effects are spectacular.
My First Day Demonstration
Michael Morgan | Fri, 07/31/2015 - 19:23
Michael Morgan has used this demo for over 25 years! His students from 20 years ago still remember the first day of chemistry!
Chemical Mystery #5: How to burn water
Tom Kuntzleman | Sat, 07/11/2015 - 14:00
The video displays a neat trick you can do for your students. What do you suppose is the secret behind this trick? Hint: It has to do with chemistry!
Rainbows in a Glass Density Demonstration
Tom Kuntzleman | Sun, 06/22/2014 - 11:34
One day during class I presented the disappearing rainbow demonstration and explained the chemistry behind it. After doing so, I had a student ask me if a particular bartending trick called “rainbow shots” was done in a manner similar to the way the disappearing rainbow demonstration is performed.
Pyrex by any other name...
Tom Kuntzleman | Fri, 04/04/2014 - 10:48
Did you know that Pyrex glassware used in chemistry labs is different than Pyrex glassware used in kitchens? Pyrex glass used in chemistry experiments is made of borosilicate glass, whereas the Pyrex used when baking is made of soda lime glass. What’s the difference?