Quick and easy basic chemistry experiments?

Question

I'm teaching a very basic chemistry class at a local college and need some very easy to set up and perform experiments. I do not have access to a lab, so the simpler the better. If it can be done with household objects, that would be fantastic.

Answer 1

Make pH indicator with purple cabbage and have students test different sodas, cleaning compounds, juices, water, etc.

Place a whole uncracked egg in vinegar and have students observe over a week or so. Control=water

Separate an egg white and yolk and place each into vinegar. Reaction takes place within 1 hr and is very cool. If you have some NaOH, do the same thing, and of course use a control beaker with water.

Place a nail in soda (Coke works well) and have students observe over time.

Add oil to water; mix in detergent to show emulsification

See http://scifun.chem.wisc.edu/HOMEEXPTS/HOMEEXPTS.HTML
http://education.usace.army.mil/clubhouse/experiments.cfm

and check some of the websites for the national chemistry assns.

Have fun!

Answer 2

Quick Chemistry Experiments

Answer 3

hydrogen peroxide and potassium permanganate - gives off, i think h2 and 02 and is a rocket fuel

vinegar and sodium bicarbonate - gives off, co2 i think and so gives off gas and bubbles

iodine in water colours it brown - add vitamin c or citrus juice and the colour dissappears.


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