Colored Fire (Chemistry Concept)

Big Idea: Visitors use fire in order to learn about 5 common elements on the elements

Goals:Visitors will be able to interact with the exhibit and receive a small dose of

information about the periodic table.Visitors will be able to at least remember and/or understand one element

that was present in the exhibit.

Idea: Periodic Table & Fire“I didn’t know that potassium could turn fire purple.” (Cognitive)“The Periodic Table isn’t as boring as I thought it was!” (Affective)

Outline of Exhibit• Will have numbered pictures to demonstrate steps for exhibit.• Computer generated voice will inform the visitor about which ever element that

they have selected.• Information will be short and brief and only include the element’s atomic number,

uses etc. (pictures and bullets will also be available.)• After the visitor hears the brief summary for the element, they will be able to see

the element combine with fire and see its reaction.

Performance• 1) Visitor will point on earphones and select desired element.• 2)Visitor will listen to a brief summary about the element.• 3) After the summary the visitor will push a button connected to a small machine or

dispenser that will dispense a small amount of the element on a plate.• 4) Visitor will press a button that will ignite a small flame. Visitor will see result of their

selected chemical and its reaction with the fire.

Advantages:

• This is just a modified version of the flame test, which is done in some high schools. Materials and equipment are cheap and easy accessible.

• Some elements are very safe (sodium, calcium) and not explosive. Many can be made a t home.

• Easy up keep and not much maintenance.• Since exhibit is interactive and mainly pictures, visitors are more likely to

remember something from the exhibit.• Compounds are premade so no big mess.• Fire will be big enough to see a reaction but small enough to not be very

hazardous.• Fire proof glass is not that expensive.• Vent fans will ensure that no smoke will be contained in exhibit.• Vent fans are cheap.

Disadvantages

• Needs air circulation so exhibit is best place near somewhere that is close to the outside (wall).

• Young kids may not be able to read yet, so maybe a computer animated voice should be used to pronounce the names of the elements.

Materials List:

• Calcium• Potassium• Coppers (I) and (II)• Iron• Fire Proof Glass• Fire Source( either gas or electric lighter)• Vent fans