Introduction
Two solutions are combined in a darkened room, producing luminescence that lasts for several seconds.
Peroxides act as an oxidizing agent. The luminol is converted to an excited-state product. This product decays to the ground state while emitting light. Luminol is 3-aminophthalhydrazide.
Peroxide acts as an oxidizing agent. The luminol is converted to an excited-state product. This product decays to the ground state while emitting light.
To Conduct Demonstration
- Position a beaker at the bottom of the spiral tube to collect the solution.
- Turn the lights down or off in the classroom.
- Pour equal amounts of solutions A and B simultaneously into the funnel at the top of the spiral tube.
- OPTIONAL: Activate variously colored light sticks.
Reaction Time: Leave for the rest of the class period
Safety
Safety: Eye protection should be worn.
References
L.R. Summerlin and J.L. Ealy Jr., Chemical Demonstrations: A Sourcebook for Teachers, 1985.
Chemistry in the Classroom (pamphlet distributed by Kodak).
Acknowledgment
John Ohlsson, Spring 1987