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Magic Writing

Materials:
  1. Goldenrod paper from an art supply or copy store
  2. A spray-bottle of Windex with ammonia
  3. Clear Scotch tape
        Chem Rules!

Procedure:

    1. Four sheets of goldenrod paper are taped together to form a banner (tape is on back of banner).  On the front of the banner, a message (such as "CHEM RULES") is spelled out using clear Scotch tape.
    2. The banner is then fastened above the heads of the audience, generally to the back of the demonstrator.  When Windex with Ammonia is sprayed on the banner, the background turns blood red, leaving the message spelled out in gold.

This demonstration may be used to introduce acid and base chemistry, providing a dramatic example of an acid/base indicator sold in copy stores.

 

----Contributed by Jackie Stewart, Mark Twain Section

 

Copyright © 2004-2007, American Chemical Society
Updated 7/25/07
Created by Milt Levenberg