Chemistry Is Cool! Programs
If your classroom isn't set up to carry out chemistry experiments, consider scheduling
a chemistry exercise during your Fantastic Fridays visit. Goggles are provided for
each participating student.
MAKING MAGIC WITH METALS: Learn how scientists use spectrophotometry to analyze metal ions. Discover how the
combustion of metal ions equals a rainbow of colors.
FABULOUS FLUBBER AND SUPER STYROFOAM: Making nylon in laboratory is demonstrated, and students manufacture flubber and
styrofoam to see how polymers like plastic are made.
SOLVE THE ACID/BASE MYSTERY: Students make their own purple cabbage juice indicator, then use it to determine
the pH of common household acids and bases.
DISCOVERING HIDDEN WATER IN A CRYSTAL: Students can determine the water of hydration contained within a salt, and discover
how water helps to form a beautifully colored crystal.
LITTLE MISS MUFFET'S DELIGHT: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL REACTIONS IN THE KITCHEN: A great demonstration of the differences between physical and chemical properties
of matter. Students demonstrate the actions of rennin in manufacturing cheese.
FANCY FRUITY FRAGRANT ESTER: Esters are chemicals that have distinctive (usually pleasant) aromas. In this exercise, students combine
organic acids and alcohols to form fragrant esters.