We had a blast today learning more about physical and chemical changes. The students saw that different types of materials react differently to heat. Things that were once living, such as paper and wool go through a chemical reaction as they burn. Things that are not made from living things usually just change phase, and go through a physical change. The kids had a blast watching things melt and burn.
As a grand finale to our experiments with fire, I showed the kids Flash Paper - a special kind of tissue paper that's been treated with chemicals which allow the paper to burn very quickly, leaving no smoke or ash. It's the same type of paper magicians use to create flames at the snap of a finger.
Then, I introduced them to the chemical lycopodium - a moss spore that is also used by magicians as well as special effects artists. It's a very light, flammable powder which, when scattered lightly in the air over a flame, will ignite into a quick fiery flash and extinguish itself just as quickly. 
Don't worry, parents! Mr. Sofferin isn't crazy! This stuff isn't nearly as dangerous as it looks! But if you decide to get some from a magic shop for your kids, make sure they don't use it without an adult around to supervise!
1 comment:
THIS was DEFINITELY my favorite experiment of the week! DEFINITELY!
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