PUBLIC DISPLAYS AND DEMONSTRATIONS - Continued
 

Sample Demonstrations and Experiments 

Chemistry experiments used by the Concordia group: 

• Soxhlet extraction of plant components using cabbage, spinach etc.
   

• Chromatography of spinach extract to show different chlorophylls.
   

• pH measurement, using pH meter, pH papers, and indicators, of household products ‑‑ lemon juice, soft drinks, water, other juices, vinegar etc.
   

• Automatic and manual acid/base titrations.
   

• Effects of liquid nitrogen on substances such as bananas, rubber etc. (demonstrates states of matter).
   

• Molecular modeling on a computer ‑‑ PC modeling program ‑‑ of such things as alcohol, aspirin, heroin, vitamins.
   

• Hazardous/toxic chemicals ‑‑ information about the toxic nature of various chemicals (handout, pamphlet), dummy examples such as flour or icing sugar were used to represent other compounds showing the quantities that are lethal.
   

• A computerized quiz (composed by students).

Preparing Demonstrations

Public demonstrations of some of the most visual effects of chemistry have always been very popular. Dr. Douglas Hayward, FCIC, gave in‑class demonstrations for a number of years. His 'Do‑It‑Yourself Chemistry' video has been extremely popular. A separate booklet, describing different experiments, is also available.

Dr. David Harpp, FCIC, Dr. Ariel Fenster, MCIC, and Dr. Joe Schwarcz of McGill University have been working on a public lecture series in chemistry for over 20 years. They have been performing their chemistry shows across the country.  Visit their website at http://ww2.mcgill.ca/chempublic/.

Chem 13 News, produced by the Department of Chemistry at the University of Waterloo, might be of interest to you. Every issue contains interesting ideas. For additional information contact Chem 13 News, Department of Chemistry, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3G1; Tel: 519‑885‑1211, ext. 3701. A one‑year subscription is $14; $26 for two years.

Information and guidelines on performing demonstrations can be found in the section Scientists in the Schools.