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The Salting-Out Effect: A Colorful Demonstration That Leads to Student - Teacher Activities

Jim Webb | Wed, 04/26/2023 - 20:53

Have you seen the "salting-out effect"? This interesting demonstration shows a separation of two layers in a solution of water and an organic solvent by adding an ionic salt. Although this concept has important applications in organic chemistry and biochemistry, it can also be visually stunning and engaging for audiences. Read on to learn how to incorporate this demonstration into your chemistry lessons.

Solutions with Kristen Vanderveen

Deanna Cullen | Wed, 02/16/2022 - 18:00

Solutions are all around us in life and chemistry class! On February 10th, 2022, Kristen Vanderveen discussed solubility curves, molarity calculations, using particulate level modeling and simulations, making real world connections and so much more in this ChemBasics Talk. View a recording of her presentation and access materials she has suggested here.

Solubility, Stoichiometry and Non-stoichiometry

Joseph Lomax | Mon, 01/24/2022 - 19:40

The unspoken word of chemistry: Non-stoichiometric. Stoichiometry and non-stoichiometry are concepts that combine to make a solution that does not have to be difficult to understand.

Thermal Paper as a Polarity and Acidity Detector

Dean Campbell | Thu, 10/28/2021 - 14:09

Thermal paper such as that used for point of sale receipts typically functions by darkening when exposed to heat. The pigment system used in this paper also darkens when exposed to solvents of intermediate polarity and acids. This enables thermal paper to be used as an inexpensive sort of indicator paper for a variety of demonstrations.

Microplastics, Liquid Nitrogen, and Iodine: Polystyrene vs. Starch Foam Packing Peanuts

Dean Campbell | Wed, 07/28/2021 - 13:03

The differing electrostatic and solubility properties of starch and polystyrene foam packing peanuts are used in various demonstrations to describe aspects of microplastics and their interactions with the environment. Their differing responses to exposure to liquid nitrogen and iodine solutions are also described.