Structure and properties

Experiments

• Allotropes of sulfur
  A demonstration of the preparation and properties of the allotropes of sulfur enables students to study the relationship between structure and properties.
• Chocolate and structure
  In this experiment pre-melted and ordinary chocolate are tasted and their melting points tested.
• Electrolysis of zinc chloride
  Demonstration showing that an ionic compound will not conduct electricity when solid, but will do so when molten.
• Making a plastic from potato starch
  In this experiment a plastic film is made from potatoes.
• Making an alloy (solder)
  In this experiment students make an alloy (solder) from tin and lead and compare its properties to those of the pure lead.
• Modelling alloys with plasticine
  In this straightforward experiment students model the behaviour of an alloy using plasticine and sand.
• Solid mixtures - a tin and lead solder
  The melting points of tin, lead and a tin-lead solder are compared.
• The density of ice
  The unusual density of ice compared to liquid water is brought out vividly in this quick and simple demonstration.
• Water expands when it freezes
  This demonstration shows that water expands when it freezes. It is useful for explaining how rocks can be broken up when they absorb water.
• Which substances conduct electricity?
  This experiment looks at covalent and ionic compounds, and which conduct electricity.