Skip to main content

2023 Chemistry Show

Saturday, October 28, 2023
10:30-11:30AM
WTHR 200

Fire and Ice Chemistry Show

"Classic Chemistry Demonstrations" takes center stage at Oct 28 chemistry show

“Classic Chemistry Demonstrations” the Annual Fall Chemistry Show will be presented on October 28, 2023. The event will be held at 10:30 a.m. in Room 200 of Wetherill Laboratory of Chemistry, located directly north of Stewart Center on the Purdue campus.

The one-hour show, sponsored by Purdue’s Department of Chemistry, is of interest to a wide range of ages from 6 and up and is open to the public free of charge.

The show will include a wide range of demonstrations that have been used for decades to illustrate the many facets of chemistry, including:

  • A "race" designed to illustrate lessons in chemical concentration, measurement, and rate of change. Audience participants will compete to produce reactions that cause chemicals to progressively change in color.
  • A candlelight lesson designed to present information on simple combustion reactions.
  • Dividing water and show a modern day use of these products in a fuel cell.
  • Burning paper using super-heated water.

The show is part of the Purdue University College of Science's continuing effort to introduce elementary through high school students to the wonders of science.

Additional information on the show may be obtained by calling Paul E. Smith, Director of Lecture Demonstration for the Department of Chemistry, 765-494-5307