Chemistry is the winner in terms of making science enjoyable and fascinating. Though there are many captivating and entertaining experiments to discover, these ten superb chemistry experiments will surely baffle your minds and certainly spark an interest in science in everyone.
Copper and Nitric Acid
When you put copper in nitric acid, the solution changes colour from green to brownish-green due to the interaction between Cu2+ ions and nitrate ions. Diluting the solution with water replaces the nitrate ions with water molecules and turns the solution blue.
Elephant Toothpaste Reaction
Mixing hydrogen peroxide and potassium iodide causes a chemical reaction that generates a large column of foam, resembling toothpaste. This cool reaction is often referred to as ‘Elephant Toothpaste’. Adding food colouring can make the foam colourful and festive.
Alkali Metals in Water
Putting an alkali metal in water results in a vigorous reaction with hydrogen ions, producing a flame that varies in colour depending on the metal. Sodium creates a yellow flame, potassium a violet flame, and lithium a red flame. Cesium is so reactive that it can even explode when in contact with water. The reactivity of the alkali metals increases as you go down the periodic table.
Thermite Reaction
Combining iron oxide and aluminium in a thermite reaction produces an instant combustion of metal, releasing heat and light. The equation for the reaction is Fe2O3 + 2Al → 2Fe + Al2O3 + heat and light. Putting the mixture inside a block of dry ice before lighting can create a dramatic effect.
Colouring Fire
Heating ions in a flame excites their electrons, which then emit photons of specific colours depending on the chemical. This is the basis of the flame test in analytical chemistry and a fun experiment to test different chemicals and observe their flame colours.
Bouncy Polymer Balls
This is a super fun and intriguing experiment where a chemical reaction results in creating bouncy polymer balls. All you gotta do is change the proportions of a few ingredients. This can also lead to modifying the characteristics of the balls and you can witness the astonishing results.
Create A Lichtenberg Figure
This can be accomplished using different methods. One way involves utilising a conductive material such as acrylic or PVC and a high-voltage source to create an electrical discharge. The resulting pattern of electrical charges resembles branching patterns. Another approach involves using a high-voltage generator to charge fine metal powder sprayed on a flat surface. The discharge follows the path of the metal powder, creating an electrical tree pattern. Witnessing the formation of Lichtenberg figures can be an exciting way to visualise electricity’s movement and learn about electrostatic principles.
Hot Ice Experiment
Another experiment to explore is making “Hot Ice” using sodium acetate, which is created by mixing vinegar and baking soda. This solution can be cooled until it is supersaturated, causing it to form crystals instantly when triggered. The resulting reaction releases heat, making the substance feel hot despite appearing frozen.
Barking Dog
The Barking Dog experiment involves a chemiluminescent reaction between nitrous oxide or nitrogen monoxide and carbon disulfide, producing blue light and a distinct “woof” sound as it progresses through a tube. Another version involves coating the inside of a clear jug with alcohol and igniting the vapour, creating a flame that emits the characteristic barking sound as it moves down the bottle.