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Demonstrations › Chemical Kinetics

Lecture Demonstrations

Chemical Kinetics

Toys and other props to help explain concepts of kinetics.

 

A clock reaction is demonstrated. Two clear, colorless solutions are mixed together. Upon mixing the solution remains clear for approximately 30 seconds and then suddenly turns dark blue.

 

A clock reaction is demonstrated with common household items. Two clear, colorless solutions are mixed together. Upon mixing the solution remains clear for a period of time and then suddenly turns dark blue.

 

Two samples of blue food dye in water, one with double the concentration of dye. Bleach is added to both samples and the time until the blue color disappears is recorded. From this, the reaction order for concentration of blue food dye is determined.

 

Two samples of blue food dye in water each with the same concentration of dye, but at different temperatures. Bleach is added to both samples and the time until the blue color disappears is recorded.

 

When a catalyst is added to H2O2 along with some dish soap, a large amount of foam is produced.

 

When a stopper is removed from a bottle, a large cloud of vapor and heat escapes giving the appearance of a jinni in a bottle.


A chemical light stick is placed in an ice bath and in hot water. The difference in the brightness of the light reaction is observed.

 

The difference of a reaction rate is observed when glycerin is added to ground and unground potassium permanganate.

 

When calcium carbonate is added to water, it is practically insoluble. When added to acid it dissolves producing carbon dioxide.

 

Observation of the oxidation of zinc metal by hydrochloric acid to form hydrogen gas and zinc chloride.

 

A piece of copper foil is suspended above a container containing acetone. The copper wire will continue to glow red hot suspended above the liquid.

 

When a spark is introduced to a container full of ethanol vapor, the vapor explodes. Because the container is closed, the rapid increase in heat and pressure blows the stopper off of the container and produces a loud bang.