Demonstrations › Atomic Structure

Atomic Structure, Periodic Trends

8.0 Props for Electromagnetic Radiation
	Use of props to demonstrate different types of electromagnetic radiation and atomic structure.

 

8.1 Spectral Emission Tubes
Display of atomic emission lamps containing different gases. Excitation of electrons in the gases result in emission of different wavelengths of light.

 

8.2 Flame Tests
	Alcoholic solutions of salts are combusted to illustrate that different wavelengths of light are emitted by different materials.

8.3 Crooke's Tube
A beam of electrons is produced in a Crooke’s tube. A magnet is brought near one end of the tube and the electron beam is deflected into a bent line.

 

8.4 Thin Slit Diffraction
	A beam from a laser pointer is directed through a narrow slit onto the far wall of the lecture room.  An interference pattern can be seen on the wall.

 

8.5 Fluorescence of Minerals and Household Items
Seemingly average materials, including rocks, are exposed to UV light, producing emission of various colors

 

1.3 Radioactivity of (Antique) Household Items
	A Geiger counter is used to detect radiation from certain objects.

 

1.4 Calcium Metal Reactivity with Water
A piece of granular calcium metal is added to water. After a few moments a vigorous reaction takes place producing hydrogen gas and calcium hydroxide.