Splitting ionic compounds
10C4 and 10W2 took part in the demonstration of the Hoffman voltameter and the colourful electrolysis. Mr Spain used brine and UI indicator to demonstrate the splitting of an ionic compound, and how negative and positive ions form either acidic or alkali solution at either end of the electrode. During the Hoffman Voltameter demonstration the Year 10 students engaged well , applying their knowledge when explaining the test for hydrogen and oxygen , the products of splitting water.
Chip Pan Fire
Dr Gonzalez demonstrated the hazards of a chip pan fire to 11W1. 3ml of oil was allowed to overheat and catch fire and 5 ml of water was used to attempt to put the fire out. The students were amazed how much damage can occur if water is used to extinguish oil-based fires.
Table Salt
9WE and 9CG observed the "MAKING SALT" demonstration for their GCSE requirements . Mr Spain produced table salt by burning sodium metal and reacting it with chlorine gas . The students had to remember the states of the elements plus the product and their correct colours during the reaction to gain maximum marks in the future.Magdeburg Hemisphere
As part of the year 8 curriculum , 8WT were invited to play and witness some wonderful effects of the power of air pressure. Mrs Blatch demonstrated the Magdeburg hemisphere and the "Coin and feather" experiment to the pupils. The students all had a go at trying to separate the two hemispheres after the air was removed via a vacuum pump. No such luck. Mrs Blatch also attempted to show that sound does not travel in a vacuum , therefore no one could hear them scream in space .