Chemistry day for pupils at Oxford University

The day began with a carousel of four experiments, beginning with an investigation into batteries and fuel cells.

They were initially asked to measure the voltage across a hydrogen fuel cell, before moving on to create a dry cell that could be activated by salt water for potential use in life jackets.

They also looked at the ever growing problem of sorting recyclable plastics.

After a short investigation they settled upon the novel idea that densities of plastics floating in solutions could be used to sort high volumes of recyclable plastics.

The final challenge was tough but produced some impressive results; it involved the pupils investigating the density of a range of immiscible and miscible liquids before adding colour to each layer to form a rainbow in a test tube.

The day finished with a lecture demonstration showing a range of different experiments including the properties of dry ice.

Dr Marcus Medley, head of chemistry at Christ’s Hospital School said: “The pupils had a wonderful time and really showed initiative and enthusiasm when it came to the tasks. It is days like this that really challenge the pupils with material beyond the scope of the course.

“The willingness and intuition shown by the pupils was commendable.”

Year 9 pupil James Miles said: “I think the trip to Oxford was a very good experience as we not only learned a lot about chemistry and about the university, but we also had a lot of fun doing so.

“I, personally, think that the best parts were the lecture at the end and the work on densities as we could easily understand what was going on in a new, clear and exciting way.”

Year 9 pupil Joe Morrow said: “On our trip we took part in many activities such as making and talking about qualities needed for life jacket batteries (for the torch) and how they react with water.

“We also looked at how to extract hydrogen from sulphuric acid, and then we looked at its voltage. We also had the opportunity to look at the density of compounds and how we can make a rainbow of coloured liquids out of immiscible solutions.

“Finally we watched a demo lecture featuring a vast range of experiments such as using liquid nitrogen to freeze cream and sugar to make ice cream, also what happens if you apply dry ice to water.

“I enjoyed everything but I especially liked the rainbow test, and the lecture a they were extremely interesting,” added Joe.