Coolest chemistry at-home experiments

In summary, some of the coolest, most fun, and most interesting chemistry experiments to do at home include the gold penny trick, the reaction between copper(II) chloride and aluminum powder, and any of the Belousov-Zhabotinsky reactions. These reactions produce various colors and patterns and can be found by googling "Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction." Other experiments include creating oscillators and exposing muriatic acid fumes to household ammonia fumes, which produce dense white smoke. Lastly, a simple experiment involving vinegar and baking soda in an old wine bottle can also provide entertainment.
  • #1
Mk
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What do you think are some of the coolest, most fun, or most interesting chemistry experiments to do at home, and how did you do them?
 
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  • #2
It's got to be the gold penny trick. You need a penny some zinc solution and a propane torch.
 
  • #3
Copper(II) Chloride will react with Aluminum powder and give off multi-colored (purple, yellow, white) fumes. This is a very cool reaction to watch.
 
  • #4
Any of the Belousov-Zhabotinsky reactions (if you can pull one off) are quite neat to watch.
 
  • #5
Googling 'Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction"...

Oh yeah! Oscillators, very cool...

Epstein et al., "Oscillating Chemical Reactions", Scientific American, Mar., 1983, pp. 112-123.

Walker, "The Amateur Scientist-Chemical Systems that oscillate between one color and another", Scientific American, Jul., 1978, pp. 120-130.
 
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  • #6
Exposing muriatic acid fume to household ammonia fume.
Produces a dense white smoke. Probably not good to breathe though.

Also when I was a kid we used to put vinegar and baking soda in an old wine bottle and see how we could shoot the cork, outdoors of course.

Jim
 

1. What are some easy chemistry experiments I can do at home?

There are many easy chemistry experiments you can do at home using common household items. Some examples include making a baking soda and vinegar volcano, creating a lava lamp with oil and water, or making invisible ink using lemon juice.

2. How can I safely conduct chemistry experiments at home?

It is important to always follow safety precautions when conducting chemistry experiments at home. This includes wearing protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, and working in a well-ventilated area. It is also important to carefully read and follow the instructions for each experiment.

3. Can I perform chemistry experiments without specialized equipment?

Yes, there are many chemistry experiments that can be done at home without specialized equipment. Some experiments may require basic lab equipment, such as beakers or test tubes, but you can also use household items as substitutes.

4. What are some cool chemistry experiments that involve reactions?

There are many cool chemistry experiments that involve reactions, including making a color-changing chemical volcano, creating a rainbow in a jar, or growing crystals using a supersaturated solution. These experiments are not only visually appealing, but also demonstrate chemical reactions in action.

5. Are there any chemistry experiments that kids can do at home?

Yes, there are many chemistry experiments that are safe and fun for kids to do at home. Some examples include making slime using borax and glue, creating a density tower using different liquids, or making a homemade lava lamp. These experiments are a great way to introduce children to basic chemistry concepts and spark their interest in science.

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