Night of chemistry demonstrations
will include some ‘special effects’

The NIU Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry invites the public to an evening of chemistry demonstrations beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, in Faraday Hall 143.

The theme for the night is “The Chemistry of Special Effects.”

“We will be presenting demonstrations that use chemistry often used to produce special effects,” said David Ballantine, associate professor in the NIU Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. “Some examples include spontaneous combustion, an acetylene cannon and the chemistry of fireworks.”

Some of the experiments planned for the evening could involve loud noises and produce some smoke or unpleasant smells and might not be appropriate for small children.

To ensure the safety of the audience and the presenters, flash photography is not permitted. At least for some experiments, members of the audience may be asked to leave their seats and move away from the demonstration area, again for safety reasons.

Those planning to attend the demonstration session can park in the university parking structure, located just across Normal Road from Faraday Hall West. The structure is open to general parking after 7 p.m., except for reserved and handicapped spaces.

3-19-07